Ian Gwyn Hughes, Head of Public Relations at Football Association Wales, has been confirmed as the MC for DLL’s prestigious Active Communities’ Awards this autumn.

The Awards ceremony, celebrating inspiring individuals, clubs, teams, schools and workplaces within the music, arts and sporting community in Denbighshire, takes place on Wednesday evening, 22nd November at Rhyl Pavilion Theatre.

Ian Gwyn Hughes, who was born in Colwyn Bay and attended Ysgol Bod Alaw, Colwyn High and Ysgol Glan Clwyd before going onto Aberystwyth University to study History and International Politics, soon discovered his career path, broadcasting for Cardiff Broadcasting Company. Ian then spent 20 years working for the BBC, as a well-recognised sports presenter and popular football commentator for BBC Wales and Match of the Day. He then joined the FAW in 2011 to manage media and communications for the Welsh men’s national team, where he supported the team through two Euros and a World Cup.

Categories for the Awards include –  Volunteer of the year, Primary school of the year, Secondary school of the year, Sport coach of the year, Sport Club of the year, Best Arts in health project, Best Community Creative project, Active Workplace of the year, Young Inspiration, Excellence Award – Young person, Excellence Award – Adult and Lifetime achievement award. Nominations close on 31st of July, so DLL are encouraging people to get their nominations in as soon as possible.

Ian Gwyn Hughes, said “ I am delighted to be hosting the event. Although I’ve lived in Cardiff since 1982 I still think of North Wales as home. It was where I was brought up, it’s what shaped my interest in sport.Football was a huge part of my life growing up in the area. I still have family dotted all around North Wales. Being in Rhyl will bring back fond memories of hours spent in my childhood in Rhyl.

I’m really looking forward to celebrating the achievements of members of the local community”

Jamie Groves, Managing Director at Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL) said: “Ian’s success and reputation as one of the most famous voices in football, is a reflection of his hard work and dedication to sport and Welsh culture over the years.  We are thrilled to have such an inspiring and influential figure from Welsh football host the Active Communities Awards this year.”

To nominate, or for more information, please visit: https://denbighshireleisure.co.uk/ac-awards-23/