ALISON MERRIEN reluctantly claimed the limelight last night as she was voted the 2008 Channel Islands Sports Personality of the Year.

Guernsey’s world champion bowler had been shortlisted for the main award in previous years, but there was no doubting that she was a deserving winner at this time of asking.

Merrien polled more than 32% of the 3,847 votes cast to finish ahead of fellow Sarnian Heather Watson, who placed second, and the three Jersey contenders Matt Banahan, Serena Guthrie and Elizabeth Cann.

‘It is fantastic to be recognised in your own island and to be recognised in all the Channel Islands as well is unbelievable,’ said Merrien after receiving the accolade from special guest Lawrence Dallaglio and Sportingbet’s Andy McIver at Beau Sejour.

‘There are just so many good sports people out there and to have been voted by the public as the top personality is incredible.’