Tom Pursglove, MP for Corby and East Northamptonshire, has been recognised as the Grassroots Parliamentarian of the Year by the Sport and Recreation Alliance.

As vice-president of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Sport, Pursglove has been an active campaigner in trying to save the playing fields at Oundle Primary School in his constituency.

Pursglove said he was “proud to champion grassroots sport and recreation”.

“We hope Tom’s efforts will inspire more MPs to get involved in sport in their local constituency,” added Alliance director of policy James Allen.

“We want to make sure that sport and recreation is accessible for all, regardless of age or ability and having the support of a local MP can really help to make a difference.”

House of Commons speaker John Bercow presented Pursglove with his award during the Parliamentary Sports Fair.