‘Unashamedly proud’ Martyn is honoured

MANCHESTER bomb victim Martyn Hett has been honoured with a posthumous award in recognition of living his life ‘openly, honestly and being unashamedly proud.’

Popular Martyn, of Heaton Moor, was formally recognised during the Attitude Pride awards in London.

The 29-year-old PR worker and keen blogger was due to travel to America for an adventure of a lifetime when he was tragically killed at the Manchester Arena bombing.

He was one of the first of the 22 people identified who lost their lives in the attack on May 22.

The Attitude Pride award was presented by Coronation Street actress Helen Worth - who plays Gail McIntyre in the soap - and collected by Martyn’s sisters, mother and partner.

Russell Hayward, Martyn’s boyfriend, said: “It means a lot to do something for Martyn to keep his spirit alive.

“Every decision I make now is for him and to make him proud.

“It’s so humbling to collect this award.

“He would be so honoured and touched, but also so all over it – he would be lapping it up. “He would be flattered.” Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, added: “We are devastated that Martyn is no longer with us, but he was kindness and love and it’s important that we continue that.

“Nobody should be in a position where they should fight for things like freedom of sexuality.”

Hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the life of the social media icon during a colourful and flamboyant funeral ceremony at Stockport Town hall last month.

Among the hundreds of people who turned out to pay their respects were Corrie stars, including Jennie McAlpine, Antony Cotton, Kym Marsh and Helen Worth, honouring the man who was perhaps their biggest fan.

Pop superstar Mariah Carey, comedian Jason Manford and Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw all sent emotional video tributes which were played during the ceremony.