May 2019 marked the 10th Anniversary of our black tie Sunshine Ball at the iconic Midland Hotel, Morecambe, celebrating the fantastic local community.
Eric Morecambe was the inspiration for the the Sunshine Awards; taking place around his birthday each year and rewarding the businesses and individuals that bring sunshine and happiness into the lives of the local community inspired by the infamous song...
Bring me sunshine
In your smile
Bring me laughter
All the while
In this world where we live
There should be more happiness
So much joy you can give
To each brand new bright tomorrow.
Established in 2009, The Sunshine Awards has become a favourite annual event within the community across the Bay Area and an unmissable date in The Visitor's events calendar.
Each year, more and more local businesses support the event with our headline sponsor, Wright & Lord Solicitors, being associated for a number of years.
Nominations for the awards launched in February 2019 inviting readers to submit their nominations in categories including Unsung Hero, Young Achiever, Good Neighbour Award and Community Group Award. We are always overwhelmed with nominations and it is always a very difficult decision for our judges to whittle the shortlist nominees!
The guest list is comprised of our sponsors, shortlisted finalists and invited guests. This year 200 people joined us at the Midland Hotel for a glittering four course gala dinner, set off with a sparkling drinks reception and a white grand piano played by the hotel's resident pianist.
Sunflowers are synonymous with the Sunshine Awards bringing happiness to the overall feel of the event. Our sunflower centrepieces were provided by a fabulous local florist. Entertainer, Stuart Michaels added to the uplifting theme of the event with his inspiring live performance!
The evening finished with the Ambassador Award which was awarded posthumously to a local boy from Overton; Reece Holt.Reece was only thirteen years old when he sadly passed away in January due to a brain tumour but had raised £100,000’s to help children with similar life threatening diseases. The award was very moving and the whole room stood up clapping with an emotional standing ovation.
This 10th anniversary is going to be a challenge to improve on next year, however I am confident we will deliver once again above and beyond the Sunshine Awards 2020!
