A host of British stars – including Simon Cowell, James Corden and Davina McCall – were spotted out-and-about at a special charity event in London last night to honor some unsung children’s champions.
With performances by Alexandra Burke and Peter André, The News Of The World Children’s Champions Awards 2011 honored those people – voted by the public – who have done a brilliant, unsung job for children.
In association with Barnardo's and The Post Office, judges included Manchester United and England giant Rio Ferdinand, Gavin and Stacey star James Corden , singer and I’m A Celeb favourite Stacey Solomon, pop pin-up Peter Andre, BBC sports icon Gary Lineker, Dancing on Ice judge and former Spice Girl Emma Bunton and Olympic supremo Lord Sebastian Coe.
“Children’s Champions are people who work so hard or perform acts of incredible heroism,” said Simon Cowell, who opened the show. “Children are central to all we do, and what award winners do for youngsters is truly admirable.”
Winners were treated to a visit to 10 Downing Street prior to the event, to meet British Prime Minister, David Cameron: “These awards are very special and very important,” he said. "They are special because they recognise some unsung, extraordinary people right across the country.
"Whether it’s helping children who are ill, rescuing them in a crisis or simply being an inspiration in their lives, these Champions quietly get on with making things better for so many young or vulnerable people without even expecting praise.
“But Children’s Champions does a great job in searching them out, and I know that the News of the World, the Post Office and Barnardo’s put in a huge amount of time and effort to give the winners the best time of their lives.
“And these awards are important too. I strongly believe that we will only build the Big Society, and the better country we all want, if we play our part in our communities.
“By celebrating the achievements of those who do precisely that, we can show others the difference they can make, and encourage them to do the same.”
Winners at the event included Connor Rowntree – a 16-year-old who was badly burnt while playing with aerosols and a lighter and now uses his ordeal to teach young people about fire safety – and 10-year-old Tom Cave, who has been campaigning against knife crime since his brother was stabbed to death. The full list of winners can be found here.
“I feel so privileged to be involved with Children’s Champions,” said Patsy Kensit. “As a mum I really appreciate people who give their all for kids.”
Other stars that have shown their support for Children’s Champions include Joe Swash, Gordon Brown and Amanda Holden.
The event will be televised on Sky Living on Sunday, April 3.
More information can be found here.
Source: NewsOfTheWorld.co.uk
