COLIN and Wendy Parry were our surprise award of the evening and received a standing ovation.

The courageous couple picked up the Warrington Guardian Inspiration Award which was designed to recognise those who had made a lasting, significant impact on the town.

The prize added to a momentous year which has seen them mark 20 years since their son Tim was killed during the Warrington bombing, 13 years since the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace centre opened and has also seen Wendy awarded an OBE.

Colin said: “The only reason we have stayed sane is because we set up the foundation and it’s kept our family together.

“We may not originally be from Warrington but it’s very much our home now.”

The pair added they were delighted to receive the award and it was a big surprise.

Wendy said: “I was getting upset when I realised we had won and told Colin I wouldn’t be able to say anything on stage or I would cry!

“It’s great and the fact that we have been thought about for such an award is absolutely brilliant.

“This is not why we do what we do but it is important to us.”