Ryebridge founder Daniel Coyle was proud to present the Child of Courage accolade at this year’s Luton’s Best Awards.
The awards, which are run by Love Luton, have been recognising community achievement for 15 year, celebrating those truly remarkable individuals and organisations who make the town a better place to live and work.
The Child of Courage Award recognises any young person up to the age of 18 who has put themselves in danger to help or save the life of another, has battled against the odds to overcome adversity in their personal life, or has made a stand to improve the lot of themselves or others.
This year’s nominees were Haresh Sivalingam and Luton Youth Council, with Haresh taking the gong.
Haresh is a student of the Queen Elizabeth school in Luton. He was nominated for his bravery and quick reactions when a lady collapsed in front of him when he was out shopping.
Haresh was able to put her in the recovery position, and waited with her until the ambulance had arrived. He had only undertaken his first aid training a few weeks before and his quick reactions and care for the lady was able to ensure she was safe when the ambulance arrived.
Daniel Coyle said: “What a remarkable young man, and definitely someone you want on the scene in an emergency like this. His quick-thinking and calm manner ensured this lady was cared for and supported following this traumatic experience, and was in the best hands until the ambulance arrived.
“Ryebridge is delighted to support the Luton’s Best Awards each year, and do our part in recognising all that is great about our remarkable community.”
The awards were hosted by the Luton Hoo Hotel and attended by special guests including the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bav Shah, the Mayor of Luton Cllr Tahmina Saleem, local MPs, councillors, shortlisted nominees and sponsors.
The compere for the evening was Andrew Castle, a former British tennis player and TV and radio broadcaster, who was back for his 11th year, and the keynote speaker was Paul Kehoe, chair of Luton Rising.
Andrew Castle, Haresh Sivalingam and Daniel Coyle at the Luton’s Best Awards.