Spirit of NI Awards: School wins special gong while actor recognised after overcoming devastating diagnosis

Belfast Telegraph

20-06-2025

Scroll down to see all the details of our 14 winners, watch their stories and see the photos from the big night
Sir Kenneth Branagh made a surprise video appearance as some of Northern Ireland's unsung heroes were celebrated tonight.
A host of famous faces were among the crowd at the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards at the Culloden Hotel in Co Down.
Sir Kenneth Branagh's on-screen message was to congratulate award-wining writer and actor Michael Patrick, this year's recipient of the Overcoming Adversity award.
Michael, who suffers from motor neurone disease (MND), has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appeared in Blue Lights, Game of Thrones and This Town. He is also an acclaimed writer.
Branagh said the Belfast actor 'truly embodies the spirit of Northern Ireland' through his achievements, especially since his MND diagnosis.
Michael rewrote Richard III as a powerful, personal exploration of terminal illness and delivered a raw, unforgettable lead performance in a sold-out run at the Lyric, earning The Stage's Judges' Award — one of the UK's highest drama honours.
Branagh said the play's win 'came as absolutely no surprise'.
'That sort of reflection of his own personal battle alone shows why Michael is so deserving of this overcoming adversity award, using that incredibly challenging situation to inspire others, and in the process, raising awareness of and promoting the need for funding and research for motor neurone disease,' he added.
'Michael, I wish you everything that you wish for yourself on this journey and for your upcoming show at the Lyric theatre in Belfast — you are an inspiration.'
Spirit of NI Awards: Sir Kenneth Branagh's special message for winner
Elsewhere, Strangford Integrated College received a Special Recognition Award after a traumatic event.
On a quiet October morning, a bus carrying pupils veered off the road and overturned, causing huge distress for the pupils and driver on board.
As the news began to spread, shock rippled through the community and parents, teachers, emergency responders and neighbours rushed to the scene. All were fearing the worst but were determined to do what they could to help the young people in need.
Over time, cuts and bruises began to heal but the mental impact was just beginning to take its toll. At the centre of the incident stood Strangford Integrated College and the entire school community has shown remarkable strength, supporting pupils impacted by the trauma through counselling and creating space for them to come to terms with what did, and what almost, happened.
The Belfast Telegraph Spirit of Northern Ireland awards, in partnership with Ulster Bank, celebrate and honour ordinary people achieving extraordinary things.
Other winners included 17-year-old Young Carer Alex Cooper, who is a pillar of strength for his family. As the eldest of five siblings, he plays a vital role in caring for his 14-year-old brother Zachary, who lives with complex medical needs.
Dr Vicky Cochrane won the Spirit of Health award. She treats hundreds of patients with care but she has become a lifeline to one grieving mother after the devastating loss her baby twin boys, and later her baby daughter due to Edward's syndrome.
A-list stars such as Mathew Horne and Ciaran Hinds were joined by stars of television and radio including Nathan Braniff and Dean McCullough.
Oscar-nominated actor Ciaran Hinds was back at the awards this year, having recently wrapped filming on The Man With The Urn, a new comedy from John-Paul Davidson and Stephen Warbeck.
In it Hinds plays the role of The Man, on a journey to scatter his wife's ashes back home in Ireland. Along the way, he meets estranged relatives and unusual characters.
'This is a fantastic idea,' he said of the awards. 'The stories you hear, people helping each other, it's an absolute joy.'
Best known for his role in Gavin and Stacey, Mathew Horne was among the guests and later treated the crowd to a DJ set.
'It's a real privilege to be here and I'm really, really excited,' he said.
'I've been here a day already as I love Belfast and it's great to settle in before the awards. I can't wait to meet everybody, all these selfless people. It's amazing to be here and I love meeting people, because that's what life is all about .
'I've brought my family with me to Belfast this time so I'd like to say I'm showing them the real Belfast, but it's not raining!'
Newtownabbey-born Radio 1 DJ Dean McCullough also made an appearance.
'I love any excuse to get back to Belfast and this is a special night,' he said. 'The stories every year would break your heart and it puts everything into perspective. It makes you feel very humble.'
Nathan Braniff, best known for his role as rookie cop Tommy Foster in Blue Lights, was on hand at the awards. He will be back in season three of the hit Belfast-set BBC drama, which recently wrapped up filming.
'It's super exciting to see everyone coming in through the front door,' he said ahead of the awards.
And with the third season of Blue Lights expected on screens later this year, he added: 'It feels like it gets better every season. There was quite a lot of time between seasons two and three so it's built up the expectations a little bit. But it went really well and I'm really excited for everyone to see it.'
Another Blue Lights star, actor Paddy Jenkins, said he would be wiping away a tear of two during the night.
'You do shed a tear,' he said. 'I do believe we are a lovely set of people. There's a lot of people with heavy hearts out there and if you can do a good turn in any way, I'm certainly up for it.'
The evening's entertainment featured performances by country star Cliona Hagan and former Beautiful South member Brianna Corrigan.
There was a comedy set from Give My Head Peace star Tim McGarry, before Mathew Horne closed the night with a DJ set.
See all the details, photos and videos of our 14 winners as they were announced on our live blog:
6 minutes ago
That's a wrap!
And that's it from the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards 2025. Everyone here is ready to dance the night away to the tunes of Gavin Shipma.... I mean Matthew Horne.
See you all next year and a huge well done to all 14 of our inspirational winners. You are the Spirit of Northern Ireland.
37 minutes ago
Special Recognition Award: Strangford Integrated College
On a quiet October morning, a routine school run for pupils in Co Down ended in tragedy.
A bus carrying pupils from Strangford Integrated College veered off the road and overturned, causing huge distress for the pupils and driver on board.
As the news began to spread, shock rippled through the community and parents, teachers, emergency responders and neighbours rushed to the scene. All were fearing the worst but were determined to do what they could to help the young people in need.
Over time, cuts and bruises began to heal but the mental impact was just beginning to take its toll. At the centre of the incident stood Strangford Integrated College and the entire school community has shown remarkable strength, supporting pupils impacted by the trauma through counselling and creating space for them to come to terms with what did, and what almost, happened.
In some ways, the tragedy fostered an even stronger bond among the pupils and a remarkable sense of togetherness. It is at times like this when you begin to realise a school is so much more than a place of learning but the very foundation of local communities.
Although many pupils still struggle with the events of that fateful October morning, they have been supported by their teachers and peers to continue with their studies, prepare for exams and return to school life.
A special message for our latest winner
Michael Patrick's inspirational story has been noticed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, who sent us this message for the winner ♥️
"He truly embodies the Spirit of NI with all that he has achieved. It came as no surprise to me when he won the judges' award for his astonishing achievement. He uses his incredibly challenging situation to inspire others. You are an inspiration. I kiss the hem of your garment."
48 minutes ago
Overcoming Adversity Award winner: Michael Patrick
Many actors are used to dealing with setbacks, but Michael Patrick has had to overcome much more than many of his costars, having been handed a devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease.
For most, it would be the end of a dream. For Michael, it became a powerful new beginning. Drawing on his own experience, Michael rewrote Shakespeare's Richard III, transforming it into a deeply personal journey about life, death and facing a terminal illness, before taking to the stage and playing the lead role in a sold out run at the Lyric.
Using wheelchairs and oxygen onstage, he gave audiences a raw and unforgettable performance night after night that won him The Stage's Judges' Award, one of the UK's highest drama honours.
He recently announcing he will return to the stage with a new show this autumn. He is proof that even in the darkest moments, something powerful can rise and is a true inspiration to others who have MND and other neurological conditions. He is redefining what it means to live with MND and proving that the show can always go on.
51 minutes ago
The emotions of a Charity Champion
Well done Mark!
56 minutes ago
Unsung Hero: Eugene 'Oggie' Winters
Some 55-year-olds might start to think about winding down, but Oggie Winters was only getting started.
In the midst of his sixth decade, he took on his first marathon and now 13 years later has clocked up over 800, ran in 800 consecutive weeks! Yes, you read that right. Every week, rain or shine, from Belfast to Berlin, Oggie runs.
His efforts have raised vital funds for a host of local charities, Action Mental Health, the NI Hospice, Air Ambulance, and more. And every step he takes is powered by a simple, powerful belief: that running can save lives, not just physically, but emotionally too.
Oggie's message is clear; every run is a chance to inspire someone else to get moving, to take care of their mental health, to believe in the possible. He may never seek the spotlight, but Oggie shines regardless. He is an everyday man doing extraordinary things and a true unsung hero.
Today 10:24 PM
Charity Champion: Mark Hanna
Mark Hanna doesn't just raise money. He raises hope.
After witnessing the compassionate care Marie Curie provided to his father-in-law, Mark has raised over £1 million for end-of-life care across Northern Ireland. From marathons to Ironman races, from treks up Kilimanjaro to black-tie galas, Mark brings unstoppable energy to every challenge.
But beyond the fundraising totals lies something deeper; an unwavering belief in bringing dignity to end of life care. Mark doesn't just support the cause; he champions it in boardrooms, in speeches, and in his day-to-day life.
As founder of the Time Ball, which alone has raised £650,000 for Marie Curie, Mark turns nights of glamour into nights of impact.
Mark Hanna is the definition of a charity champion. He is selfless, dedicated and motivated by a genuine desire to bring about positive change.
Today 10:16 PM
Spirit of Sport Award winner: Helen and Sarah Logan
Helen Logan's life changed drastically four years ago when she became wheelchair bound but in losing her mobility, Helen found a new lease and love for life through sport.
Wheelchair basketball showed Helen that her change in circumstances did not prevent her from living life to the full. A dedicated volunteer, passionate player, and tireless organiser, Helen gives her all to her local team the Causeway Giants, both on and off the court.
As secretary of the club, she handles logistics, raises funds, cleans kits and mentors the next generation of talent. Helen also champions the 'Little Giants,' ensuring that children with disabilities discover the joy of sport in the same way she has.
Helen regularly uses her voice to raise awareness for disability rights, appearing on news programmes, speaking at events and bringing visibility to adaptive athletics.
This year, Helen made history as the first wheelchair user to take part in the Belfast Marathon relay. All of this simply would not be possible without the help of Helen's right hand woman, her 14-year-old daughter and carer Sarah.
Sarah often thinks about Helen's needs before her own and their bond is a powerful illustration of what can be achieved through resilience, teamwork and love.
Today 10:09 PM
Spirit of Education Award winner: Susan Jones
With over four decades of experience, Susan's influence reaches far beyond the classroom.
She pioneered early years development in her community, helping to found cross-community playgroups like Noah's Ark, and later led shared education projects linking schools, police, communities and local families.
At Fort Hill Integrated Primary, Susan has welcomed children from every background with open arms - including those who don't have English as a first language - and made each and every one of them feel seen and heard.
As a child protection lead and qualified counsellor, she provides direct support to families facing poverty, illness, and hardship, delivering gas top-ups, hygiene essentials, and supplies for a local foodbank in person.
When a few school families sadly experienced bereavement, Susan was an immense source of solace and did everything she could to keep the young pupils engaged with their education and help them cope with the loss.
For Susan, every child matters, every voice counts, and every day is a chance to make a difference, which is why her colleagues call her the heart of the school.
Today 09:50 PM
Up next: The final six awards
Spirit of Education
Charity Champion
Spirit of Sport
Unsung Hero
Overcoming Adversity
Special Recognition
Today 09:19 PM
There is NOBODY having more fun than Sound Around Ards
Our community heroes are OUT OUT tonight.
Today 09:18 PM
A proud Caring Spirit winner...
...and her even prouder friends!
Today 09:11 PM
Caring Spirit Award winner: Sheila McGivern
At the Southern Area Hospice in Newry, few colleagues embody care and compassion like receptionist Sheila McGivern. For 35 years she has been soothing thousands of patients and families during their most difficult hours. Sheila is often the first person to greet families as they enter the hospice and she offers each of them something no training course or manual can teach; true empathy.
With a kind word, a reassuring smile and a heart full of grace, she brings comfort when it's needed most, and families will frequently recount how it was Sheila who kept them going through the hardest times.
Over the decades, she has shaped the ethos of the hospice, becoming a cornerstone of its spirit. Quiet, constant, and profound, Sheila is truly a caring spirit.
Today 09:05 PM
Environmental Hero: Ballinascreen Scouts
In the heart of the Sperrin Mountains, the Ballinascreen Scouts have been tirelessly sowing the seeds for environmental change for over 30 years.
The Draperstown-based group's efforts go far and beyond simple litter picks, they build insect hotels, bird boxes, squirrel feeders, and revitalise rivers and ponds, all using recycled materials. From their youngest Beaver Scouts to their teenage adventurers, each child is taught the first lesson of outdoor pursuits – take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.
Their hands-on work in conservation isn't just good for nature but it is helping to transform their community, inspiring young people to protect what matters. They've planted native trees, restored neglected spaces, and championed the red squirrel's return.
Their leaders and youth members are united by one shared belief, the earth matters, and they can make a difference.
Today 08:59 PM
Young Carer Award winner: Alex Cooper
Alex Cooper is only 17, but he is a pillar of strength for his family. As the eldest of five siblings, he plays a vital role in caring for his 14-year-old brother Zachary, who lives with complex medical needs.
From early morning NG tube feeds before school, to night-time ventilator checks, Alex can always be relied upon. He is there for his brother every day; quietly, patiently and lovingly.
But his care doesn't stop at home. Alex gives his time to help other young people with additional needs, volunteering with Goal Line Youth Trust and Ripples Special Olympics. He teaches children with disabilities to swim, helps them grow in confidence, and gives them space to shine.
He's helped non-swimmers take their first strokes and coached children to take on new challenges, all because they trust him. He also volunteers at events his parents organise for special needs families, always the first to show up with a helping hand and the last to leave. Alex is at a stage in life where many of his peers focus on themselves, instead Alex chooses to put the needs of others before his own.
His empathy, commitment, and unwavering spirit are rare and remarkable. He didn't choose this role, but he embraced it wholeheartedly, lifting up everyone around him in the process and showing how special it is to care for someone.
Today 08:53 PM
Community Hero: Sound Around Ards (Talking Newspapers)
For almost half a century this incredible group of 35 volunteers has created a lifeline for the visually impaired, producing weekly CDs filled with local news, stories and laughter from the Ards and North Down area.
For many, these familiar voices might be the only ones they hear all week. Each CD brings the outside world in, reminding listeners that they are not alone. Over 2,000 editions have been created and shared with individuals and care homes, completely free of charge.
These are ordinary people doing extraordinary things, not for applause, but because they care. They bring joy, dignity and belonging to those who might otherwise feel isolated and inject a strong sense of community into the local area.
The Sound Around Ards team are true community heroes, proof that sometimes the most powerful acts of kindness are those that happen quietly, behind the scenes.
Today 08:47 PM
Up next: Four more awards
Community Hero
Young Carer
Environmental Hero
Caring Champion
These were slated for 9.45pm and we'll be under way at 9.50pm. That's not bad going, is it?
Today 08:46 PM
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