TODAY we continue our countdown to The Gazette Sports Awards in March and look at the next five sportsmen and sportswomen nominated for the title of The Gazette Sports Personality of the Year.

TOM OWENS - diving: In his first national event, Tom returned with a gold medal in the three-metre synchronised event with partner Gary Hunt. This after having to quit tumbling due to a back injury.

JUSTIN ROSE - golf: It was a season of ups and downs for this golfing star, the highlights being when he led both the US Masters and the Volvo PGA Championships at the halfway stage, only to fade in the final two rounds.

CLAIRE SPREADBURY - indoor bowls: One of the top juniors in the game, Claire helped England to the under-25 home international title. Once again she qualified for the final rounds of the English under-25 singles, going out in the last 16.

SHAUN UDAL - cricket: Played his part for Hampshire last season as they gained promotion to the top flight of the County Championship, as well as staying among the one-day league top dogs. On a personal front, the spin king passed 1,000 wickets in all competitions.

SALLY WARD - lacrosse: Made her debut in the senior Great Britain team at the age of 17 and helped them to finish in bronze medal position in the European Championships in Prague.