Pride of Britain honours its founder Peter Willis in year of former Mirror editor’s death

Pride of Britain founder Peter Willis died this year aged 54 – the event that he was so deeply associated with honoured him at the first awards night since his passing

This year’s awards paid tribute to Pride of Britain founder Peter Willis who tragically died this year, aged 54.

Peter – who had stints editing the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People – had been part of the Mirror group for 23 years

Lloyd Embley, Group Editor-in-Chief of Reach PLC – which publishes the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People – said: “When Peter died in June this year a light went out at the Mirror… and at Pride of Britain.

“This was his baby – and we are going to do everything we can to look after it for him.

“Peter was unquestionably a brilliant journalist – but, as far as legacies go, creating this takes some beating doesn’t it?”

A standing ovation followed a short film highlighting his greatest Pride of Britain moments.

A host of stars turned out in style for this year’s Mirror Pride Of Britain awards.

And while glitz and glamour dominated the red carpet, celebrities also spoke of the courage of the winners.

Hollywood icon Sharon Stone, 63, presented an award to Prince’s Trust winner Hassan Alkhawam, 23, who fled Syria to build a new life in Northern Ireland where he works for a charity supporting vulnerable refugees. She said he had inspired her.

“What an amazing young man to be so compassionate through his efforts to change his own life. He is willing to give so much to change others,” she said.

Olympic legend Mo Farah said: “Pride Of Britain is amazing because it celebrates people who keep this country going. ”

This Morning host Rochelle Humes said: “This is the most humbling and emotional night and even more so given the last 18 months.”

And sofa pal Phillip Scho-field added: “This is the night we don’t matter. We sit there and watch other people and think ‘oh my gosh’.