A world champion says he has been snubbed by organisers of the BBC's Sports Personality Of The Year awards.

Eleven-times world champion clay pigeon shooter, George Digweed, 37, has been told there is no room for him at this year's show.

The decision comes despite George winning two world titles in the past 12 months.

In April, he won the World Sporting Championship in the United States and in October, the World Fitasc Championship and World Cup in New Zealand.

In a 15-year career, he has won more than 80 titles.

George and his wife, Kate, from Northiam, near Rye, were shocked when a letter arrived saying there would be no room for them at the event.

The BBC invited him in 1996 and 2000 when he had achieved similar success.

George, who regularly shoots with his friend, footballer-turned-actor Vinnie Jones, said: "I feel I have been snubbed. I have achieved a lot in the sport and it is amazing to think what you have to achieve to get an invitation.

"I'd have thought winning two world championships would have been more than enough but obviously that isn't the case.

"I don't think they want to be seen promoting a sport which involves guns. Maybe it isn't politically correct."

Fiona Williams, spokesman for BBC Sport, said: "There are only 500 seats and every year there is a great demand for space.

"Mr Digweed has previously been invited to the event but just because you have had an invitation in the past that doesn't guarantee you an invitation in the future.

"We apologise to George if he feels snubbed but we are focusing on other sports this year."

The ceremony is being broadcast on BBC1 on Sunday, December 9, at 8pm.