PETER HUTTON, who captained Derry City to their first premier division championship success in eight years, was named Opel Personality of the Year by the Irish soccer writers last night.

Hutton emerged at the top of a shortlist which included two other significant contributors to Derry's celebrated win, Gavin Dykes and manager Felix Healy.

Others in contention for the award were Alfie Hale, who led Kilkenny City to the first division title, and the Shelbourne pair, Stephen Geoghegan and Pat Morley.

It is an award which is unlikely to provoke a lot of controversy in as much as the midfielder's aggressive running provided one of Derry's biggest assets at a time when they needed an alternative attacking spearhead to Liam Coyle. Just as Coyle's refined skills were imprinted on many of Derry's better performances, Hutton's ability to get on the end of the pass played through the opposing defence, accounted for some precious goals at a time when they were most needed.

A son of a former Derry City player, he epitomises the new emphasis on local talent at a club which, in the past, tended to look further afield for its rallying points.

Accepting the award from Arnold O'Byrne, managing director Opel (Ireland) Ltd at a banquet in the Conrad Hotel last evening, he paid tribute to the shrewd managership of Healy and the sense of togetherness at the Brandywell.

A special merit award was presented to Alfie Hale for his services to the local game.