Cricketing ace Andrew Flintoff scooped a top sports prize at a glittering ceremony held in Manchester on Monday night.

The Preston born star, who became a national hero for his exploits in helping England beat Australia to win back the Ashes in the summer, was awarded the North West Sports Personality of the Year at the BBC North West Sports Awards 2005.

The 27-year-old all-rounder was unable to receive the award in person because he is currently with the England team in Pakistan but sent a video message after receiving his award from England coach Duncan Fletcher.

The former City of Preston High School student has also been tipped to scoop the national award for BBC Sports Personality of the Year which will be televised on December 11.

One person who is convinced Freddie will take the coveted prize is City of Preston High School headteacher, Stephen Roe.

He said: "City of Preston High School is very proud that one of its ex-pupils has gained such a prestigious award. His performance in the Ashes series was outstanding and he is a role model for all young cricketers to follow in the future.

"The competition in the national BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award will be very fierce but his chances must be very good because of his contributions in the Ashes series and the feel good factor that was generated in this country at the time."