Hollywood actor Brian Cox leads tributes to Pride of Scotland's unsung heroes

Daily Record

25-06-2025

Stars reveal why they loved taking a backseat to award winners at 2025 People's Oscars
IT was a night of celebration, camaraderie and rousing applause for life-affirming examples of heroism and dedication to others.
The Daily Record Pride of Scotland Awards with P&O Cruises saw a host of stars turn out to recognise the courage and selfless determination shown by the nation's unsung heroes.
Hosted by Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev Kohli, the glittering event at Glasgow's Hilton was an uplifting
Celebrities including Succession star Brian Cox, Gladiator Sheli McCoy and footballers Billy Gilmour and Jack Butland were queuing up to sing the praises of the inspirational winners of our 'People's Oscars.'
Here is just a selection of the warm words they shared on the night.
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney hailed cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy as Scotland's Champion. He said: 'Sir Chris is an absolute sporting legend who has achieved so much but then in the face of adversity has demonstrated the strength and resolve which is of course so characteristic of all of the Pride of Scotland winners.'
Scotland and Napoli footballer said of Teenager of Courage Georgie Hyslop: 'You'll never see her without a smile. I went and visited her and she played the guitar for me. I left the hospital in tears because of how happy she was. It was amazing to see. She is the bravest and strongest young woman I have ever met.'
Succession star and acting legend Brian Cox said he was moved by shopkeepers Asiyah and Jawad Javed who are right at the heart of their community in Stenhousemuir, near Falkirk. He said: 'What an amazing couple. Scotland's sense of community is what keeps this nation great. This evening has been totally overwhelming.'
Game of Throne's star James Cosmo honoured King's Trust Young Achiever Shane Lee, 26, who has autism and has landed his dream job in Marks & Spencers, said: 'What a wonderful young man who has overcome so many obstacles in his young life and is going to achieve so much more.'
Sheli McCoy said she was blown away by Young Fundraiser Theo Hardie, seven, who ran 100 miles to raise money to buy his little brother a wheelchair. She said: 'Theo's selflessness took my breath away. The bond he shares with Jude is heartwarming. He is such an incredible boy.'
Rangers Jack Butland also praised the bighearted schoolboy, who he presented with a signed goalie shirt. He said: 'Being a footballer is great but getting to be here to honour someone as special as Theo means the world. What an amazing young man.'
Comedian Al Murray said Outstanding Bravery winner Stewart Miller, who jumped into the River Tay to save a stranger who had got into trouble during a storm, was a remarkable human being. He said: 'Such an amazing man who maintains he wasn't doing anything special which makes him even more extraordinary - my bowels would have turned to water at the thought.'
Star Wars actor Denis Lawson said he was in awe of 'Vape Crusader' Laura Young who got a Special Recognition award for her campaign that led to a ban on selling disposable vapes in Scotland. He said: 'It's extraordinary what Laura has achieved from a standing start all on her own. To think the USA, Canada and Ireland are now considering all considering following suit is gobsmacking.'
STV newsreader Kelly-Ann Woodland also praised the young campaigner. She said: 'What Laura has achieved is incredible. She has managed to force a change in the law which will have a positive impact on both the nation and the planet.'
Strictly star Dr Punam Krishan was taken aback by the Ups and Downs Theatre Group who won the P&O Cruises Inspiration Award. She said: 'They just bring the joy. You can't help but smile when you hear them perform. What talent, what wholesomeness, what sparkle!'
Wellerman singer Nathan Evans was also a big fan of the Ups and Downs who belted out a song from The Greatest Showman live on stage. He said: 'Their enthusiasm and passion is incredible and I feel privileged to have been asked to present their well-deserved award.'
Eastenders star Laurie Brett lauded King's Trust Young Achiever Ashleigh, 28, who attended the event with her trainee assistance dog Blu and helps deliver mental health training to frontline workers. Laurie said: 'Ashleigh brings so much positivity to the world. She should be running the country. What an inspiring girl who has refused to let the dark times define her.'
Singing legend Susan Boyle added: 'Ashleigh should be really proud of herself and all she has achieved and as for Blu - that dog is something special.'
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Hailing the Speirs family, who run the cancer charity Calum's Cabin in memory of their son who passed away in 2007, Trial and Retribution star David Hayman said: 'The Speirs are truly inspirational. To have overcome that grief and gone on to build a legacy in Calum's name is awe inspiring. They deserve all the credit in the world.'
A Place in the Sun presenter Jean Johansson added: 'Caroline, Duncan and Jenna are three of the nicest people I have ever met and Calum lives on in them and the work that they do.'
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Scot Squad star Grady praised the four Dunfermline shop workers who tackled an armed robber. He said: 'Only in Scotland would you get folk who would have a square go with a man with a gun. The CCTV footage of them all coming together to tackle the robber is like something out of a movie. All four of them are pure, dead, brilliant.'
- Watch the Pride of Scotland winners' stories at: from Friday 27th June
https://www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/events/make-it-happen