Pamela wins ‘Mum of Year’

Pamela was nominated for the award by her son Matthew, who wrote a letter telling everyone what an amazing mum he has.

28-year-old son Matthew Allen’s letter moved everyone who attended the recent award ceremony and by the end there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

“My mum is the best because I am a disabled guy and I have a lot of things wrong with me,” wrote Matthew.

“Mum has always been there for me, taking me to hospital for appointments. If I had to stay in hospital mum stayed too, going without sleep many a night just sitting holding my hand, making sure I was ok.

“She never complains, always goes out of the way to help others. My mum is the best because she is always there for me no matter what happens and has brought me up as a very independent guy and not as a disabled guy, as in her eyes every child is perfect.

“So, that’s why I am entering her. I want her to know she is the best and a very special lady – my mum.”

Matthew’s emotional letter won everyone over and Pamela, who attended with Matthew and her husband Gordon, was thrilled to win the top prize.

“I’m still in shock,” she said. “I looked down towards Matthew, who was also crying his heart out and he immediately ran up on stage to hug me and it was one of the strongest, heartfelt hugs I’ve ever received.”

Pamela’s prize was a Florida holiday and a Caribbean cruise, sponsored by American Holidays.

“I can’t wait to go to Orlando and The Bahamas,” Pamela continued.

“I’ve never been there before. I’ll definitely be taking Matthew and my husband Gordon will be coming too.

“I have felt so honoured to have won, though any of the mums would have deserved this prize. I’m so glad it’s me though,” she added.

Astrid Johnston, cruise product manager for USA’s multi award winning & Cruise Specialist Tour

Operator American Holidays said she was delighted with the success of the inaugural Mum of Year and said she was hopeful of doing it all again next year. “Our Mum of the Year event was extra special as it celebrated ordinary mothers who are extraordinary people,” she said.

“Each of the ‘Mum of the Year’ finalists were treated to a champagne lunch at Home restaurant, a bouquet of flowers, vouchers from American Holidays and they all thoroughly enjoyed being serenaded by swing sensation Martin John, who performed during dinner.