NEWENT dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin took the top title in the 2014 Sunday Times and Sky Sports Sportswoman of the Year awards.

Charlotte Dujardin, who was in Australia when the awards were announced, at a star-studded ceremony in London, expressed her thanks for her 2014 Sportswoman of the Year award through a video link.

The prestigious awards, now in its 27th year, celebrate the outstanding contribution to sport made by elite performers, coaches, administrators, community volunteers and inspirational female figures.

Among some of the guests present were double Olympic gold medallist freestyle swimmer Rebecca Adlington and Olympic gold medallist track cyclist Victoria Pendleton.

Charlotte said: "I am really privileged to accept this award. I am sorry I can't be there but I am in Melbourne at present.

"I have an incredible relationship with my horse Valegro. I have been working with him for eight years now. We know each other inside out – he's like my dance partner out there. In fact, he should be up on the stage receiving the award too, but he's at home in the stables!

"I would like to thank all my fans and my whole backroom team. People like Carl Hester and many others who have helped me to get to where I am today. I have had an incredible four years in my sport – what I have achieved is unbelievable."

The double Olympic champion was recognised after maintaining her dominance of the dressage world throughout this year.