Rewards for inspirational pair

TWO young people have been rewarded for overcoming major challenges.

Joe Shallcross and Fiona McCance were honoured with Mayday Trust Achievement Awards, given to people who realise their ambitions despite difficult life challenges.

Joe won an Inspirational Journey Gold award for getting his life back on track having spent time in Rainsbrook Secure Training Centre.

Since his release, he has successfully completed the Prince’s Trust course, and started a full-time carpentry and joinery course which he plans to progress to an apprenticeship.

He is also involved in the music studio at Hill Street Community Centre, has performed on stage at Caldecott Park and plays football for the Red Lion in Hillmorton.

Fiona won an Inspirational Journey award and a Mayday Talent Bond to provide musical workshops for people with learning disabilities. She has overcome obstacles to discover a passion for journalism.

A Mayday Trust reporter, she has written about the inspirational stories of vulnerable people on her blog fionamaydayreporter.blogspot.co.uk and recently completed work experience with BBC Northampton.

Trust chief executive Pat McArdle said: “We salute these individuals and their amazing achievements.

“To see how far people have come on their own personal journeys powerfully demonstrates the value of Mayday’s focus on talents and abilities.”

The awards, supported by the Michael Varah Memorial Fund, honour the charity’s founders Michael Varah and Jim Higgins who launched Mayday in 1976.

“We are so proud and honoured to be celebrating all of these life-changing achievements,” said Sally Varah, widow of Michael, who presided over the ceremony.

Share This

Regional news »