BBC may change sport awards format

The wealth of British sporting success this year could lead to changes in the BBC's Sports Personality Of The Year award.

The corporation is said to be looking into a new system following the rich summer of achievements by Olympians, Paralympians and the remarkable victories of stars such as Bradley Wiggins in the Tour de France and Andy Murray's US Open win.

The Daily Telegraph says the longlist for the awards will be extended to accommodate the huge number of outstanding performances.

In past years there have often been a handful of obvious contenders, but this year has seen heart-stopping moments such as Mo Farah's double gold-winning success on the track, Wiggins and Sir Chris Hoy's cycling tally and Jessica Ennis's heptathlon triumph at the Olympics.

David Weir and Ellie Simmonds' achievements at the Paralympics - among many others - have also been a huge cause for celebration.

A spokeswoman for the BBC said reported changes were "speculation" and plans for the awards - presented in December - would be announced in the coming weeks.

Last year the awards aroused controversy when no women made the shortlist.