NHS heroes, Saints Community Development Foundation and Johnny Vegas were among those saluted on a glittering and emotional night at the Pride of St Helens Awards, sponsored by the Mikhail Group.
In the first major local community awards celebration since the pandemic, outstanding people and organisations were highlighted for their contributions to the town.
Judges said the selection process was the most difficult in the event’s history and every shortlisted nominee that was present received a trophy.
The event, organised by the Steve Prescott Foundation and media partners the Star, was high on emotion with the winners who could attend taking to the stage to speak with host Fraser Dainton, of Sky Sports.
Founded in 2012, the event is aimed at raising aspiration across St Helens by highlighting inspiring stories of achievement, resilience, courage and talent.
Johnny Vegas collected the Pride of St Helens award for his contribution to his hometown during lockdown – when he was a key part of the emergency supplies hub being run out of the Eccleston Arms – and a highly successful career in the entertainment industry that spans more than two decades, Saints Community Development Foundation and Dr Greg Irving became runners up for their fantastic work during the pandemic.
Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group Pride of St Helens Awards
Lannyman Child of Courage Award
Winners
Clark Doyle
Leah Bennett
JC Kitchens Young Community Star:
Winner
Darcy Fleming
Highly commended
Daniel Marsh
AJ White
St Helens Borough Council Young Sportsperson of the Year:
Winner
Eleanor Cairns
Highly commended
Niamh May
Scout Wilson-Bonner
Assured Life Charity Champion:
Winner
Amanda Fieldhouse & Louise Johnson
Highly commended
Vicky Ford
St Helens MIND
Imperial Bar & Terrace Arts Award:
Winner
Jude Riordan
Highly commended
Miguel Doforo
Cath Shea and St Helens Arts Service
Paramount Digital Courage Award:
Winner
Deborah Ainsworth
Highly commended
Michael Thompson
Melissa Grace McComas
Handepay Unsung Hero Award:
Winner
Paul Llewellyn
Highly commended
Cabbage Hall CIC
Stephen Mousdell
Mark Hayes
Saints Sportsperson of the Year
Winner
Jodie Cunningham
Highly commended
Harry Coppell
Alex Walmsley
Torus Family of the Year:
Winner
Hobin family: Mark and Leanne
Highly commended
Smith family: Ian and Yvonne
Nye Family: Joanne, Gareth and
children
The Kirkfield Lockdown Award:
Winner
St Helens Together
Highly commended
Blackbrook ARLFC
Newton Community Centre
Accord Wills Emergency Services Hero:
Winner
St Helens and Knowsley Hospitals NHS Trust
Toast Cafe Special Achievement Award:
Winner
St Helens Rugby League club
Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group Pride of St Helens Award:
Winner
Johnny Vegas
Highly commended
Dr Greg Irving
Saints Community Foundation
Steve Prescott Foundation Special Recognition Award
Winner
Alex Chicken