Three inspirational children were celebrated with Child Of Courage Awards, sponsored by Southport Pleasureland, at the 2024 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards.
Jose Thiakulam Paulose, Dylan Roberts and Ralphy Thompson were each given huge rounds of applause as they made their way to accept their awards from Southport Pleasureland CEO Norman Wallis.
All three have battled against huge adversity with bravery and a spirit that has impressed all those around them.
Southport Pleasureland CEO Norman Wallis said: “Sefton and Southport are full of great people achieving great things and if we find our direction by working together we can make Southport great again.”
Jose Thiakulam Paulose
Last summer, on a day out with his family, Jose was involved in an horrendous accident on a day out in Southport.
He suffered appalling injuries and has only recently returned to class at his primary school in Southport full time, to the delight of his classmates, his teachers and his family.
Jose has shown huge amounts of courage and determination, even in pain. He is an inspiration to others.
Dylan Roberts
Photo by Kevin Brown Photography
Dylan, from Southport, has complex health needs having been born addicted to heroin and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and other conditions.
He has had various operations but loves having a laugh with everyone and is loved by many.
He enjoys school and his friends, Royal Rangers, rock climbing, canoeing and more.
Ralphy Thompson
Photo by Kevin Brown Photography
Ralphy, from Maghull, is nearly three years old and has already undergone heart surgery after being diagnosed with a very rare genetic abnormality.
Ralphy, who received a huge number of nominations from members of the public, has had a significant number of hospital stays and surgery but still keeps smiling, and shows huge strength, resilience and courage.
Photo by Kevin Brown Photography
The 2024 Pride Of Sefton Awards saw 13 categories on the night at The Grand in Southport, with incredible stories behind all the finalists.
There were over 1,300 nominations for community figures from Southport, Bootle, Crosby, Formby, Maghull and across Sefton.
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards were organised by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport in association with media partners In Demand Radio.
Photo by Kevin Brown Photography
The night was hosted by In Demand Radio presenter Claire Simmo, with entertainment from Whitney Houston tribute performer Michelle Lawson, soul singer Dave Broe and DJ Baz Todd.
As Sefton celebrates its 50th birthday, VIP guests attending the awards included Sefton Council Leader Cllr Marion Atkinson; Mayor of Sefton Cllr June Burns; and council Chief Executive Phil Porter.
Also enjoying the evening were boxing world title challenger Martin Murray and Liverpool FC legend Gary Gillespie.
Pictures on the night were taken by Kevin Brown Photography with videography by Zack Downey from ZED Productions.
Fundraising took place on the night with proceeds going to ICU Steps, the intensive care patient support charity.
- For more details about the Pride Of Sefton Awards please visit: www.prideofseftonawards.co.uk or email: standupforsouthport@gmail.com
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