Inspirational individuals honoured at the 2025 Grand Pride of Sefton Awards

An emotional and uplifting evening took place at The Grand in Southport as inspirational individuals from across the borough were recognised at the 2025 Grand Pride of Sefton Awards.

The awards celebrated people and organisations who have made significant contributions to improving life within the community, including those who displayed extraordinary bravery during last summer’s tragic events in Southport.

A particularly moving moment occurred when the main award was presented in memory of Elsie Dot Stancombe (aged 7), Bebe King (aged 6), and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (aged 9), who tragically lost their lives whilst attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class at Hart Space on 29th July 2024.

Family members accepted the awards on behalf of the three girls and spoke with great courage about their legacy and the ongoing initiatives aimed at creating positive change within Southport.

The Sefton Courage Award was presented to teachers Leanne Lucas and Heidi Liddle, who were recognised with a standing ovation for their lifesaving actions on the day of the tragedy.

Leanne Lucas stated:

“This award also goes to all 26 girls. This isn’t just for us — it’s for every single one of those girls, all of whom were incredibly brave that day.”

In a recorded message, a young girl known as ‘Sarah’, who was stabbed three times while assisting younger children to safety, addressed attendees from London, where she was preparing to participate in the Mini Marathon to support families affected by the tragedy.

Sarah said:

“I accept this award not just for myself but for all the children who were there and were so brave on such a tragic day. Sorry I can’t be with you all tonight — but kindness never stops.”

Another courageous young girl, ‘Amber’, who suffered severe injuries and required extensive surgery, was also honoured with a Child of Courage Award. She has since gone on to lead a charity supporting other young people.

Churchtown Primary School in Southport was named Sefton School of the Year, while its Headteacher, Jinnie Payne, received the Sefton Community Impact Award. This weekend, Mrs Payne will be running the 2025 London Marathon alongside Sergio Aguiar and others to raise funds for a new playground in memory of the three girls who lost their lives.

The Sefton Diversity and Inclusion Award was awarded to Nina Karetska, who has been an advocate for Ukrainian culture and freedom, organising outstanding community events across Sefton.

The Grand Pride of Sefton Awards, organised by Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport, with media partners In Demand Radio, also raised vital funds for the Southport Strong Together charity and ICU Steps through donations and an auction held during the evening.

Andrew Mikhail, Chairman of Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group, said:

“Due to the heinous action of one individual, our borough has been ripped apart. But tonight shows the courage, compassion, and strength that lives on in Sefton. We will always remember those we lost, and we will move forward together, never forgetting but always celebrating the good in our community.”

Andrew Brown, Director of Stand Up For Southport, added:

“We had over 2,000 nominations this year — a true testament to the strength and spirit of Sefton. Last year we saw what evil can do, but this community has answered with thousands of acts of incredible kindness. Darkness ends. Light always shines through.”

The Grand Pride of Sefton Awards will return to The Grand in Southport on Friday 24 April 2026.

Nominations are now open for 2026 and can be made via the Pride of Sefton Awards website.

Find all the latest Sefton news here.

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