HEROES were celebrated in York as the winners of this year’s Community Pride Awards were presented with their prizes.

The annual awards, held on Thursday night, recognise those who go above and beyond to support communities in the city in different ways.

This year, entries flooded in from readers keen to highlight the unsung heroes - but only one winner could be chosen from each category.

Nigel Burton, editor of The Press, said: “There is an astonishing number of people working behind the scenes across the York area to make life easier for others less fortunate than themselves.

“These volunteers have their moment in the spotlight so that others can be inspired by their efforts and join them in helping to provide the glue that holds our community together.”

This year’s Person of the Year was Professor Mike Holmes, who leads York mass vaccination site. Mr Holmes was nominated for his fantastic work in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Spirit of Youth in York winner was Mollie Ovenden, who has given up her time to support the vaccination site at Askham Bar.

Staff member at Burton Green Primary School, Yvonne French, claimed the Public Sector Hero award for her “incredible” work.

Meanwhile, Michael Lacy was crowned Charity Fundraiser of the Year for supporting the MIND charity.

There were three Child of the Year winners. Finlay Price, Milly Trueman and William Atkinson all shared the title for their amazing work supporting their local communities.

The winner of this year’s Volunteer of the Year was James Cooper, nominated for his work providing essentials to those in need.

Health Service Hero, Sister Kirstie Vincer, won the award for “stepping up and saving lives” during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, York City Knights player, Will Jubb, took home the Sporting Hero crown.

Julie Norman won the Carer of the Year award for providing “exceptional home care”.

The Special Recognition Nursing prize was awarded to Jean Dawson, who is set to retire from York Hospital.

Doctor of the Year was announced as Chris Bennett for being a “rock” for patients in the city.

Professor Lynne Gabriel was handed the Mental Health Award for her “outstanding” work and leadership at York St John University.

This year’s Best Community Project was The Snappy Trust for its continued support during the pandemic.

The Old School Medical Practice was crowned GP Practice of the Year for the staff’s “unfailingly helpful, kind and caring” work.

  • For a full supplement with all the winners and pictures see The Press on Tuesday, October 19.