York’s true heroes were honoured last week as the winners of The Press’s Community Pride Awards 2014 were announced.
The hidden stars of the city’s communities - who selflessly dedicate their time to making life better for others - enjoyed a moment in the spotlight at the 11th annual awards.
Nominees, friends, family members and supporters gathered at York Racecourse for the ceremony, hosted by ITV Yorkshire presenter Kate Walby.
The Press’s Managing Editor Steve Hughes welcomed everyone to the event and praised the inspirational people nominated for the awards.
He said: “Tonight is the perfect opportunity to recognise the unsung heroes of York.”
Fourteen awards were given out, and a touching moment came when five brave youngsters - Georgina Thompson, Jak Church, Ebony Whitehead, Cameron Lee and Phoebe Watling - were all named Child of the Year.
The Tour de France’s successful visit to York in July was remembered when the team which put in months of hard work before the event was presented with the Significant Achievement award; and the Community Pride Person of the Year award went to Haxby woman Eunice Cooper, who has spent years raising money and helping out in her community.
Other awards also went to Bishopthorpe teen Tom Sutton, anti-litter campaigners at New Earswick Primary School, theatre-lover Dan Shrimpton, and tireless charity fundraiser Phil Wiggins - who marked his 41st birthday yesterday.
Long-serving football referee Ian Hotchkies was named York’s Sporting Hero for 2014; and the success of the Grand Depart inspired Tour de Tang Hall and the hard work of the Bishopthorpe Road Traders Association were both recognised with awards as well.
Lollipop lady Joyce Donkin - who has been carrying out her duties at Fishergate Primary School for 40 years - was named Public Sector hero, and hospital volunteer Diana Thomson, devoted parent Celia Crampton, and music-loving teacher Debbie Feehan were all honoured for their inspirational spirit and hard work for others.
The Community Pride awards are held in partnership between The Press and the City of York Council, and are sponsored by Benenden Health.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel