The community heroes of Salford got their chance to shine at the annual Salix Stars Awards 2015.
Charity fundraisers, inspirational teenagers and a support group for ex-servicemen and women were among the unsung heroes honoured at the eighth annual awards ceremony hosted by housing association Salix Homes.
The top award of the night – the Spirit of Salford Star – went to mum-of-two Janieve Petruzis, 40, from Charlestown, who has helped raise more than £10,000 for charity Ronald McDonald House in Manchester.
Janieve started fundraising after she was supported by the charity when her son Scott, seven, was diagnosed with Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula (TOF) – a condition which affects babies’ ability to swallow.
Speaking after her award win, she said: “I’m absolutely overwhelmed, this means a lot to me. I do what I do for every child that’s ill and it makes me very proud to do that for them.”
Other winners included Aim High Star winner Laura Kendall, 31, from Ordsall, who volunteers tirelessly in her community.
Picking up the Young Rising Star accolade was inspirational teenager Rosie Heaton, 18, who has battled meningitis and ME to raise awareness of the conditions and £6,000 for charity.
The Seedley and Langworthy in Bloom group picked up the Best Green Star in recognition of their annual floral display and Salford Veteran’s Breakfast Club, which acts as a lifeline for ex-armed forces personnel, were awarded the Shelagh Delaney Creativity Award.
A special posthumous award was also given in memory of disabled rights campaigner the late Josie Browne who worked tirelessly with Salford Disability Forum.
Lee Sugden, chief executive at Salix Homes, said: “A massive congratulations to all our winners and of course everyone who was nominated.
“The Salix Stars Awards are a wonderful celebration of the true community heroes of this city. Salford is home to some genuinely inspiring people, as the many heartwarming stories behind the awards demonstrate, and it makes us very proud to call them our customers.”
The awards, which are supported by lead sponsor construction specialists A Connolly Ltd, took place on Friday, November 27 at the Lowry Theatre, Salford Quays.
Photo: Janieve Petruzis
