Two heroes who saved a woman’s life after she fell on a railway line have been crowned winners of the Pride in Medway awards, co-sponsored by the University.
Gareth Acres and Billy McPhail acted with no thought of danger to themselves when Barbara Smith fell on the track at Strood station just as a high-speed train was pulling in.
The pair were crowned winners of the annual awards event, now in its 14th year, at a gala finalist ceremony on 18 April in the Pilkington Building, Medway campus. The ceremony was hosted by ITV Meridian’s Sangeeta Bharbra and children’s TV presenter Phil Gallagher.
Thirty-two unsung heroes picked up awards at the event, which is aimed at rewarding people who go above and beyond the call of duty in their everyday lives. Each of the award sponsors – including the University, Medway Council, mhs homes, Southern Water, the Medway Messenger, Eon and Southeastern – choose their own award-winner.
This year’s University of Kent winner was Natasha Steer, nominated in recognition of her role in developing the arts scene in Medway. Natasha set up a Creatabot website to support local creativity, which has resulted in innovative projects such as providing creative kits to people who are socially isolated.
Natasha was nominated by artist Richard Jeferies who worked with her on the Chatham town centre mural. He said: ‘She promotes art events that are accessible to all, regardless of ability. Just about any member of the creative community across Medway and beyond knows of her.’
Natasha’s award was presented on the night by Jane Glew, the University’s College Master for Medway. Jane said: ‘We are proud to award an individual who has the local community at the heart of everything she does’. She added that the University is looking forward to possible future joint ventures between Natasha and students from its School of Music and Fine Art.
Other finalists at the Pride in Medway ceremony were singer Jamie Johnson, firefighting couple Dave and Angie Hester who have given more than 50 years service between them, and animal lover Erin Russell, 12, who saved a dog’s life.
For further information, see the Pride in Medway webpages.