TODAY we launch the search for the Basingstoke Gazette Sports Personality for 2017 to follow in the footsteps of footballer Sam Argent.

The winner of the award will be revealed at the Basingstoke and Deane Sports Awards, which will be held at the Apollo Hotel next month.

Once again this year there is no short list to vote from, the decision is entirely up to you.

However, you may consider along with Argent, Basingstoke Town 's exciting young footballer Sam Smart, hockey ace Alex Danson, top golfer Justin Rose, World Powerboat champion Daisy Coleman, Basingstoke Bison forward Aaron Connolly or Basingstoke cricketer Mitch Stokes.

To vote for your winner simply send an email with Gazette Sports Personality in subject and the person you have chosen, along with your address to sportsdesk@ basingstokegazette.co.uk or you can also send your vote in by post to the Sports Desk, Basingstoke Gazette, Gazette House, Pelton Road, Basingstoke RG21 6XD, with the same details.

The closing dates for all entries is Wednesday January 31.