Latest News - 5/10/2009
Prince Charles: Pride of Britain Awards is a unique celebration of courage and caring
The extraordinary acts of three Westcountry heroes were recognised as about 100 celebrities and politicians gathered for the Daily Mirror's Pride of Britain awards.
The Prince of Wales, Prime Minister Gordon Brown and a host of stars gathered to salute the winners of the awards who included Royal Marine Sergeant Noel Connolly, Chris Saunders and Martin Langlands.
Chris Saunders, from Barnstaple, received the Prince's Trust Young Achiever Award in the Pride of Britain for his part in rehabilitating young drug users.
The 33-year-old, a former drug user whose habit was behind 176 convictions, now dedicates his life to helping others as manager of Ovis Farm, in Barnstaple, a supported housing project for men, some of whom have had drug and alcohol addictions.
"There are some really good people here," Mr Saunders said. "It's nice to know that people can see that you can change."
Mr Saunders was given his award by supermodel Naomi Campbell and ITV News presenter Mark Austin.
Ms Campbell said: "It's really, really inspirational for me and I'm very grateful." Mr Austin said Mr Saunders was an example of how someone could get their life back if they were determined to succeed.
