SLIDESHOW: Lisburn’s finest are honoured

A packed audience of award nominees, sponsors, guests and friends turned out for the gala occasion.

Hosted by Denise Watson it was at times an emotional ceremony as the achievements and talents of local people were recognised.

The compere started the occasion by recalling her youth in Lisburn and highlighting everything the city has going for it.

The Mayor, Thomas Beckett also spoke, praising all those nominated, and saying how the entries reflected well on the Lisburn and Castlereagh Council area.

Ulster Star Content Editor Damian Wilson welcomed everyone to the event.

He gave a particular welcome to the Mayor Thomas Beckett and the lady mayoress and also to council chief executive Dr. Teresa Donaldson.

“This is the first time the Star has hosted such an event and I would just like to take this opportunity to thank a few people for making it possible,” he said.

“Firstly the sponsors and in particular our associate sponsor, Choice.

“I would also like to thank our own events team, Karen and Julie, and Rikki and Collette from our advertising department, also our judges and Denise Watson, for being our compere.”

Mr Wilson said the awards were all about the people of Lisburn.

“When Karen first suggested this event I thought it was a great idea to recognise the talent, achievements and the spirit that exists in this area,” he said.

“It is all too easy to knock and criticise the city and to complain about what is missing or lacking from our community or about what has happened in our own lives.

“But the awards entries have shown what I already knew to be true - for everyone who does this, Lisburn has far more people who get up and get on with helping others, serving our area and working to make Lisburn a better place.

“I was genuinely humbled and moved by the stories and achievements of all those who are nominated here tonight.

And I want to finish by congratulating all the nominees, in my opinion you are all remarkable people, you are a credit to Lisburn and it’s an honour to have you all here tonight.”

Following the awards ceremony the Atlas singers entertained the audience with a number of songs.