THE great and the good of Warrington were honoured at the Warrington Guardian's second Inspiration Awards last night.
From charity champion to teacher of the year, the unsung heroes of the town were celebrated with 11 worthy winners scooping up one of the 11 prestigious awards which were up for grabs.
Emotions were running high as the winners were announced during the event at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Thursday.
But it was a night of tears and cheers as inspirational people from the community were acknowledged for their tireless campaigning, fighting spirit and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
Speaking at the ceremony, Guardian series newspapers advertising director Kate Orr said: "We originally launched the ceremony in 2013 to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the paper but it was so popular that we decided to make it an annual event.
"And when we look at all the people who have been shortlisted, it really shows what a great town we live in."
The festivities were hosted by radio personality Pete Pinnington, who praised the nominees for their strength and courage.
More from each winner will be on the Warrington Guardian website over the next week and in Thursday's Warrington Guardian but for now here are some of our favourite moments.
There were tears all round when kind-hearted youngster Ted McCaffery picked up his award for his Alder Hey fundraising
Our Lifetime Achievement winner Dave Thompson, from Warrington Disability Partnership, was almost lost for words..but then thanked his family for all their support.
Dr John Oates had his family in tears with his speech after picking up the Contribution to the Community Award.
Shocked and surprised faces from the lovely ladies at Home-Start after scooping Charity of the Year.
Mel O'Neill, who picked up our Act of Courage Award, said she still reminds her husband Carl he said nobody would read her blogs...look at her now!
Sportsperson of the Year Christoper Smith was a popular winner in the room
And the crowd were on their feet for Teacher of the Year recipient Joanne Edwards from Stagepro.
Adult learner of the year Rose Brookes was delighted with her prize
And Marie Foulkes from Cheshire Dogs Home said it was a 'team effort' after picking up Charity Champion
And there were lots of tweets of support on the night for Great and Green winner Deryck Whitehouse
Congratulations everyone!
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