CHARLIE LISTER OBE was given a standing ovation as he accepted a surprise GBGB/GWA Lifetime Achievement award at Sunday’s Greyhound of the Year Awards at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.

Lister, winner of seven English Derbys and seven Scottish Derbys, announced his retirement last year handing the licence over to assistant Chris Akers, who joined him for the trip to London with owners Kieran Hickey and Max Aldous.

“Kieran’s been a great and good owner of mine for many years, so when he offered to drive me to London I thought why not,” said Lister, “but then to receive this award was a nice surprise. Kieran was in on it – he hid it well!

“Thank-you to everyone who made it possible and for the kind words spoken on the night,” he added. “I’m not especially one for occasions Iike that, I just like to to get on with things, but it was a really nice and was special. I’ll never forget it.”

Lister, who welcomed the announcement of the Derby dates and particularly the extra days between the third round and quarter-finals, praised his former staff, principally Akers and Ian Sutherland, now with Angela Harrison, and thanked his family.

“Pat (Cartledge, partner) is enjoying the time we’re spending in Filey. Neither of us are getting any younger, but the time was right, although Chris knows I’m only next door if he wants a hand. I’ve still got a kennelhand’s licence!”

Mark Wallis had earlier accepted his Ladbrokes Trainer of the Year trophy – for the tenth time – and the multiple champion paid his own tribute to Lister when he spoke about the rivalry with the Newark maestro over the years.

“Charlie’s been a hero of all us trainers for many years, so to go head to head against him was always a real honour. I’ll be honest, to beat one of his always made it special – because Charlie produced his greyhounds at their best.

“He made you want to become a better trainer and was an inspiration to us all. His record in the Derbys will never likely be matched, but this kennel will always keep on trying! And last year was another proud year for us.

“It certainly wasn’t easy, there were lots of ups and downs, but to still compete at this level and win the title for the tenth time is down to my family and staff. Their hard work has kept Imperial Kennels at the top and that’s satisfying for myself.”

Wallis also paid tribute to Kinda Ready, the 2009 Derby champion, whose passing was recently announced. “He was our first Derby winner and was still the best night’s racing of my life and I’m sure Patrick (Janssens, former head man) would say the same.”