A young author-illustrator who’s published her first book, in order to help children and adults better understand the world they’re in, has been celebrated at the 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards.
Nicola Robson was a Finalist in the Sefton Arts Award category sponsored by Fitton Estates.
The event took place at The Grand in Southport, with local heroes honoured for their positive impact they make in the local community across 13 categories.
Nicola Robson published her first children’s picture book, Dizzy Izzy, in February 2026.
Nicola said: “Dizzy Izzy tells the story of a young girl who can feel the world spinning.
“Izzy struggles through life, unable to cope in the same way as those around her, until she has a brilliant idea which will change everything!
“I was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD in 2025, and after struggling my whole life and not knowing why, I wanted to write a book to creatively explain what this was like that would help children, and that late diagnosed adults would relate to.
“I wrote this book but I kept being unhappy with it, and in true ADHD style I wrote another book to procrastinate fixing the first.
“That’s where Dizzy Izzy came in! It was based on an idea I had about 17 years ago and I built upon it.
“I wanted it to be a fun and imaginative story with a positive way of solving a problem, but subconsciously it turned into a metaphor for being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world!”
The 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards celebrated selfless, talented and courageous people across 13 categories at The Grand in Southport on 24th April 2026.
The Main Award was won by Queenscourt Hospice founder Dr Karen Groves MBE.
The evening was hosted by former Sky Sports News presenter Fraser Dainton with VIP guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE and Mayor of Sefton Cllr Burns.
Funds were raised on the night for the ICU Steps charity, which supports patients in intensive care and their families.
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards are organised by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport in association with media partners In Demand Radio with support from Southport BID.
There are 13 categories including Child of Courage, School Of The Year, Community Impact, Charity Champion and more, plus the Main Award.
Next year’s event takes place on Friday 30th April 2027.
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