THE shortlist for the sixth Solarking Commercial Pride of St Helens Awards has been revealed after a selection process judges described as the most challenging in the event’s history.
The awards, to be held at Saints’ Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday, November 10, attracted a record-breaking 362 nominations.
Organisers, the Steve Prescott Foundation and media partners the Star, hope the event will continue to raise aspiration across St Helens by highlighting inspiring stories of achievement, resilience, courage and talent.
Among those shortlisted for the headline award are Tony Williams, a soldier who, after defying the odds to recover from being shot six times in Afghanistan, is now a driver for Team BRIT, a motor racing team of disabled ex-troops who are looking to make history.
The Lilac Centre for Cancer Care at St Helens Hospital is also in the running in recognition of the role it has played supporting the lives of countless patients and families.
Also shortlisted, posthumously, is former rugby league player Tony Barrow, who died earlier this year at the age of 45 after showing indomitable spirit fighting a brain tumour.
In other categories, the Youens family are shortlisted for the courage award following the immense bravery and dignity they displayed since the death of their daughter Violet-Grace in an horrific hit-and-run and to recognise how Violet saved two lives through organ donation.
In the same category, Tesco worker Kody Clarke is shortlisted for coming to the aid of a bus driver who had lost control of his vehicle, while Karen and Paul Ledsham are saluted for strength they have shown to become foster parents following the heart-breaking loss of two children.
Martin Blondel, general manager of the Steve Prescott Foundation, said: “Each year it seems the judging process gets tougher.
“There were some incredibly moving and inspiring stories this year and we’d thank everyone who put in nominations for sharing them with us.”
A supplement sharing the stories of those shortlisted will feature in the Star ahead of the ceremony.
NOMINEES
FW Marsh Young Community Star
Bobbie-Cardy Traverse
George Mathias
Eleanor Wharton
Carmel College Leadership Award
Mark Thomas (Parish Church Primary School)
Chris Smith (Haydock ARLFC)
Susan McKenzie (Eccleston Mere)
Luxor Group Child of Courage
Isabelle Carroll
Alexander Prescott
Assured Life Champion Fundraiser
The Hope Centre
Julie Lynan
Jean Newsholme
The Imperial Terrace and Bar Arts Award
Len Saunders (posthumous)
Lynn Gerrard
Yellow Door Artists
Cosey Rentals St Helens Courage Award
Kody Clarke
The Youens family
Karen and Paul Ledsham
St Helens Council Young Sportsperson
Ben Walkden
Millie Costello
Kieran Shirley
St Helens RFC Sportsperson
James Roby
Jenny Welsby
Dave Chisnall
Renaissance Skincare and Beauty Unsung Hero
John Unsworth
Thatto Heath Rugby Club volunteers
Gill and Chris Bickerstaffe
Invest in St Helens Excellence in Business
Handepay
OD’s
Leanne Ryan – Burrows Lane Equestrian Centre
Solar King Commercial Pride of St Helens Award
Tony Williams
Tony Barrow (posthumous)
The Lilac Centre for cancer care at St Helens Hospital
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