Cumbria's newest sporting legend has been nominated for person of the year - in New Zealand.

Cricketer Ben Stokes, who grew up in Cockermouth, is in line to win New Zealander of the Year, vying for the title with New Zealand cricket captain Kane Williamson.

Born in New Zealand, Cumbria became Stokes' adopted home after moving to the UK at the age of 12.

His parents have since returned to New Zealand, and now live in Christchurch.

Stokes was lauded as the key force in clinching victory for England in the recent cricket world cup.

Chief judge of the New Zealander of the Year competition, Cameron Bennett, said that Stokes is "the embodiment of the qualities we cherish as New Zealanders - courage, fairness, and humility."

The awards have been running since 2009, and endeavour to honour the achievements of "inspirational" New Zealanders.

Last year's winner, Kristine Bartlett, received the award for securing equal pay legislation for caregivers in the New Zealand elderly care sector.

She led a pay equality campaign on behalf of 55,000 carers disadvantaged by previous legislation across New Zealand.