SHEFFIELD promoter Damien Bates was invited to the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday – and received an individual accolade while he was there.

The Palace of Westminster played host to the annual All Party Parliamentary Group for Motorcycle Speedway awards presentation, where achievements from the year are honoured.

Bates helped guide his local club to their first league title since 2002 and received the Championship Award for his dedication towards the Tigers and the investment he has put in.

Said Bates: “I used to go to Owlerton as a young kid and watch Sheffield on the terraces so to become club owner later in life was something I was very proud of.

“But after a few testing and frustrating years, to finally win the league this year made it all so worthwhile and it’s a season we’ll never forget at Owlerton.

“It’s nice the team have got the recognition they deserve for what they’ve achieved this season and that’s the very least they deserve.”