Pride and joy21
Celebs pay tribute to award winners
Holly arrives in stunning dress Amanda Holden outside Carol Vorderman IT WAS a glittering night of celebration and emotion as a galaxy of stars came out to honour the Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain. More than 100 famous faces were wreathed in smiles as they graced the red carpet in London last night for the awards bash.
The ceremony, in partnership with TSB, was once again recognising the ordinary men, women and children whose extraordinary achievements embody the very best of the human spirit.
And, as the celebrity guests arrived to hear the truly amazing tales of heroism, courage, determination and devotion, their hearts swelled with pride and the tears began to flow.
Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart said: “It isn’t like the Oscars or the Grammys where everyone is patting each other on the back. These winners are real people and they deserve the entire nation’s thanks. It’s going to be a real tearjerker.” And actress Dame Joan Collins Alesha Dixon Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster Debbie Mcgee
added: “I think these awards are so unique because the people are so special. They’ve have all done something amazing something we’ll all probably never do.”
Prince William was guest of honour at the 19th annual event which was also attended by Theresa May and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.
And the VIP guests came from all spheres of society – politics, pop, stage, screen, business, sport and science. But every one was more than happy to be eclipsed by the REAL stars of the night – the winners, aged five to 85.
There were courageous kids, fundraisers, a sky-diving pensioner, pioneers and victims of tragedies who refused to be bowed.
And, in a year that had the London and Manchester terror attacks and the Grenfell Tower fire, William had been determined to attend to honour the heroic emergency services.
TV presenter Christine Bleakley arrived with soccer star husband Frank Lampard.
She said: “Pride of Britain is one of those events that everyone knows is coming.
“And it’s also one of those events where you Nicole Sherzinger Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne just can’t not cry. Tonight is going to be very tough after everything that’s happened this year, but uplifting, too.”
Singer Liam Payne said: “Our country has been through a lot this year and it’s important to celebrate these unsung heroes.”
I’m A Celebrity queen Scarlett Moffat arrived with her mum. She said: “It’s such an honour to be here with such brave, inspiring people.
“We’ve always watched it on TV and I cry buckets, so I’ve packed my handbag full of tissues.”
Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield were there to present the This Morning Emergency Services Award to the Grenfell firefighters.
Holly said: “Most people run away from danger and these people ran towards it to save lives. It’s extremely humbling.”
Co-host Phillip said: “This is a night of heroes. It’s all about saying thank you.”
Loose Women’s Coleen Nolan said: “In today’s climate of fear to hear stories like this gives you faith in humankind again.”