JACKIE Roberts would sooner be out of the limelight, but since her daughter Megan drowned in the Ouse two years ago she has become a well known figure in York, tirelessly campaigning for water safety.

It can't be easy, but her selfless approach towards other people's well being is humbling to say the least.

Now Jackie has been rewarded with the Jane Tomlinson Courage Award for her work with the Royal Life Saving Society. Like Jane, she is a shining beacon of human compassion and the award is thoroughly deserved.

The same goes for Selby author Christina Gabbitas whose book Share Some Secrets encourages children to speak up about their problems. Both she and Jackie have been recognised at The Sue Ryder Yorkshire Women of Achievement awards.

And we couldn't be more delighted for them.