A YOUNG Tillicoultry man has spent the last year influencing the future of Scottish sport and is looking forward to another 12 months in the role.

Ryan Kellock, who was named Clackmannanshire Young Citizen of the Year 2016, was selected for sportscotland's Young People's Sport Panel (YPSP) in June last year.

He took the chance to be a voice for young people because he believes physical activity can change lives.

Ryan, along with 15 others on the panel, had the chance to meet sport minister Joe FitzPatrick to present his ideas.

The panel hope to be strong influencers in four theme areas including women and girls, disability, mental health and access to sport and have consulted with stakeholders to bring issues to the fore.

Ryan, an SFA referee at the age of 17, said: "I joined the Young People's Sport Panel because I have a passion for sport and I have seen first-hand the differences sport can make to lives.

"I wanted to give more young people the opportunities to change their lives through sport.

"The first year has been great, we've had so many opportunities and had the chance to contribute to a range of different topics."

The YPSP members recently attended an annual residential at Glenmore Lodge in Aviemore, giving them a chance to reflect on the past year and set out what they will look to achieve by the end of their two-year tenure.

Stewart Harris, chief executive of sportscotland, added: "I've been incredibly impressed by the commitment and passion for sport these sport panel members have.

"They've already made a big impression at a local and national level and I look forward to seeing the positive impact their dedication will have on Scottish sport in the coming year."

Ryan, who dreams of one day taking charge of an Old Firm game in his refereeing career, joined the panel following a rigorous selection process that drew more than 150 applications.

This the fourth two-year cycle of the panel, visit bit.ly/2KXZ0w9 to learn more.