Otley’s MP has been named one of 2012’s Sports Parliamentarians of the Year.

Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) was nominated for the honour – for the second year running – by the Rugby Football League in recognition of his support over the past 12 months.

Although he didn’t win the overall award, coming in fourth, Mr Mulholland said he was honoured to be recognised, along with ten other MPs and peers, for his promotion and support of sport.

He said: “It is a great honour to be named a Sports Parliamentarian of the Year. It is fantastic to receive recognition for the work I have put in to support a number of sports, both locally and nationally.

“I am delighted to have been able to continue the work I have been doing with the Rugby League Group in Parliament, as well as continuing to support local clubs and sports people, in what has been a memorable year for sport.”

Niel Wood, of the Rugby Football League said: “Greg Mulholland is a tireless campaigner for community sport, and for rugby league in particular, in his constituency, in Parliament, and in his everyday life.”

Chairman of the awarding panel, Brigid Simmonds OBE, said: “We were very pleased to recognise Greg Mulholland for his long-term support for rugby league.

“Greg has been a constant and vocal supporter of the RFL, and in the last year played a key role in the campaign to oppose moves to cut local radio sports coverage.

“He is also a keen sportsman himself, raising more than £5,000 for charity by completing two marathons and a six-day cycle in the space of eight days.”

Mr Mulholland also put forward the idea for the Be Inspired, Get Involved campaign, which aims to build on the excitement that surrounded London 2012 Olympics to boost sports participation at local level.