Dean Macey picked up his second best newcomer award in 24 hours after being honoured by the Sports Writers' Association.

The Canvey decathlete was named best international newcomer at London's Cafe Royal yesterday afternoon.

On Sunday night the World silver medalist took the best newcomer award in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.

The latest trophy came at the end of a busy few days for Dean. As well as the two ceremonies he got engaged to girlfriend Lisa Hayes on Saturday and celebrated his 22nd birthday on Sunday.

"It's one of those steps," said the athlete. "I asked her and she said yes. We are not in any rush to get married. We are going to live life up a little and enjoy what I have done."

The awards were a surprise for Dean who thought he might be up for sports personality of the year when he was invited to the BBC event.

"I saw Denise Lewis and her agent before we went in and they did not smile or do anything," said the former Waterside leisure centre lifeguard.

"I could not believe it when she called me up but I'm glad I did not get the main award because I have not won, I got silver in the world championships.

And he added: "I would like to win sports personality of the year when I have won something."

Dean's next big chance for glory will be at the Sydney Olympics next autumn although he will be doing a decathlon in June or July as preparation and will do single events for his club Harrow AC.

"I have a good chance of being in with a medal at the Olympics," Dean added. "I think I'm capable of an upset but I would not expect it because the event is hard.

"I would not be dissatisfied if I did not get a gold for at least four years."

Dean has already started his training regime for the Olympics which includes a gruelling ten times 400m workout with a minute's rest between each circuit of the track.

He also signed a sponsorship deal with sportswear manufacturer Asics last week which is for clothing and financial support.

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