The time has finally arrived to settle back with tissues at the ready and raise your glasses to the nation’s incredible unsung heroes.
The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards, in partnership with TSB, will be televised tonight on STV at 8pm and promises to be a rollercoaster of laughter, joy and tears.
From humbling acts of kindness and selfless acts of bravery to raising millions for charity - our country is packed to the rafters with incredible folk who deserve to be celebrated.
And tonight you can join us as an array of stars salute our 10 inspirational winners at a glittering ceremony hosted by Sanjeev Kohli and Elaine C Smith.
The hour-long show will feature a performance by chart topping duo Saint PHNX and an impromptu rendition of Shout by the one and only Lulu.
Here we hear from the host of stars who feature in tonight’s TV show and find out what they had to say about our nation’s unsung heroes.
Lulu said: “I’m thrilled to be here. Scotland is a little country with a huge amount of unsung heroes. It’s right that we celebrate them all.”
Love Island’s Paige Turley said: “We fell in love with the Pride of Scotland Awards last year and jumped at the chance to come again this year. We are honoured to be here and to be recognising some extraordinarily brave and inspirational people.”
Finn Tapp added: “Thanks to Paige, I now have a special place in my heart for Scotland and am delighted to be here to honour the country’s greatest Scots.”
EastEnders’ star Laurie Brett said: “These are the people who make me proud to be Scottish. The night belongs to them and I’m over the moon to be here to show my appreciation for their achievements.”
Lorraine Kelly said of Child of Courage Mila Sneddon: “Mila has shown such incredible courage and now she is cancer free which is the best news ever. She is such a special little girl.”
TV presenter Stephen Mulhern honoured Mila saying: “Massive congrats on your award. I have heard about all you have been through and how brave you have been. Your family are so proud of you. The Duchess of Cambridge is proud of you. Everyone is proud of you.”
Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay surprised Child of Courage Zac Gunn. He said: “Young man you are only four-years-old and already you have a huge award. Congratulations.”
Basketball star Kieron Achara said of little warrior Zac: “What a wee superstar! There are really no words that can accurately describe his courage and resilience. He’s my MVP.”
Olympic gold medallist curler Eve Muirhead added: “Zac deserves all the medals in the world. To show such bravery and determination despite being so ill is awe-inspiring.”
Liverpool and Scotland footballer Andy Robertson praised Child of Courage Keiran Reid saying: “You deserve this recognition. I am very proud of you and all the fundraising you have done.”
Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne honoured MND warrior Lucy Smith. He said: “Lucy your strength, your bravery and your sheer determination is an inspiration to me and the people of Scotland. You are amazing.”
Bridgerton’s Ruby Barker said: “I was so excited to meet Lucy and her beautiful family. She’s a legend and a role model to everyone. She is definitely a great Scot. A courageos champion.”
Strictly Come Dancing 2017 winner actor Joe McFadden said: “There are really no words to describe Lucy. She is beyond inspirational and it is a privilege to be here for her tonight. I am truly humbled by the grit and determination she has showed to achieve her dreams and be there for her family.”
Afterlife star Ricky Gervais praised TSB Community Hero Louise Russell saying: “Congratulations on the great work you do for the older community and animals. They all need our help so well done.”
Chewin’ The Fat stars Greg Hemphill and Gavin Mitchell spoke highly of Louise Russell who runs the Give a Dog A Bone charity saying: “What’s not to love about this incredible woman and her charity? There is a loneliness pandemic in this country and Louise is on a mission to help combat it. Pairing up OAPs and dogs in need of a home is truly inspired.”
Actor John Hannah sang the praises of Lifetime Achievement winner Jean Cumming He said: “You have helped make a difference in so many people’s lives. You are a true inspiration to us all.”
As did TV presenter Carol Vorderman, who said: “By setting up Crisis, Jean is providing a lifeline for the people when they need it most. She is so deserving of this award.”
Take That’s Mark Owen added: “What you have achieved with your counselling charity Crisis is incredible. It is so important when you are struggling to have someone to talk to. Well done and thank you.”
STV newsreader Kelly Ann Woodland honoured Dnipro Kids’ Stevie Carr. She said: “Stevie is just the most incredible human being. He had me in tears.”
Outlander hunk Sam Heughan sent a video message to Emergency Services winner PC Clare Chalmers. He said: “Clare you are so very deserving of this award. You went above and beyond the call of duty to protect the community. Thank you for your bravery and your dedication.”
Radio and panto star Grant Sott also praised the hero cop. he said: “She is a credit to her profession, her country and everyone who loves her. It takes guts to go it alone against an armed attacker. Her only thoughts were to keep the woman safe. What a remarkably brave person she is.”
Holby City and Corrie actor John Michie recognised Asian walking group Boots & Beard. He said: “What a simple but incredibly effective idea this trio have had and implemented. They have blown me away. Walking is good for the soul and body and these gentlemen have used it to foster friendship, mental wellbeing and fun.”
Homes Under the Hammer’s Martel Maxwell added: “I love how Boots & Beards have now incorporated a walking group for women where they can leave the trials of family life behind and have some me-time with female friends.”
The group also received a message from EastEnders’ actress Nina Wadia, who said: “Nature is there for everyone to enjoy and what the group is doing is so important and they are sending out a really positive message. Well done Boots & Beards you are the pride of Scotland.”
Scotland goalie Allan McGregor was lost for words after hearing Child of Courage Keiran Reid’s tragic story. He said: “For one so young, Keiran has shown remarkable resilience. He lost his dad but has continued to make a difference in his memory and by raising money will helo save other lives.”
Sports presenter Eilidh Barbour added: “It’s an honour to be here to celebrate the achievements of such an incredible young man.”
The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards with TSB, will broadcast on STV on Tuesday, July 19 at 8pm
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