The British Basketball League (BBL) are pleased to announce that they have granted a franchise to the Essex Leopards, who will commence BBL competition from the start of 2013/14 season.

Well last year I was invited to present the Awards at the Leeds Carnegie Junior end of seasons Awards. I thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't wait to be asked again. I am delighted to say that the call did come and last Saturday afternoon found me on the way to Old Leo's Rugby ground for the 2011/2012 Awards.

British Basketball has today confirmed that NBA player, Byron Mullens will no longer be joining the Standard Life GB men for the Olympic Games this summer. Photo by SUMO

The BBL is delighted to announce that the Manchester Giants and East London Royals have joined their ranks ahead of the 2012/13 season.

One of Great Britain's most successful athletes is Sarah Storey. She started out as a Paralympic swimmer changing to cycling after discovering that she was very good at it. In the run-up to the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, I am delighted to say that I got the opportunity to put some questions to her.

Over the years, there have been a number of people who have helped me along the way and others who have inspired me to try even harder. I know that I will not have remembered them all, but in this space I would like to pay tribute to just some of those people. Remember, I might have missed you for now but, new names will be added in the coming weeks.

Over the years, there have been a number of people who have helped me along the way and others who have inspired me to try even harder. I know that I will not have remembered them all, but in this space I would like to pay tribute to just some of those people. Remember, I might have missed you for now but, new names will be added in the coming weeks.

While updating stories for this new-look mikeshaft.com, I came across this paper I wrote in December of 2003. I think it makes interesting reading.

On Sunday the 10th of July 2012, the 'Manchester Day' parade took place once again and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Commonwealth Games in Manchester over 100 members of the original games volunteer force joined in the celebrations.

The Standard Life GB women have split their weekend international series 1-1 after losing 63-50 to Canada on Sunday in Edinburgh.