Stars pay tribute to unsung heroes

Stars and politicians gathered to pay tribute to some of the nation's unsung heroes in a ceremony to reward acts of courage.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown and more than 100 celebrities attended the Daily Mirror's Pride Of Britain Awards at the London Television Centre.

Celebrities arriving in the rain said it was a "humbling" event to come to and an honour to be invited.

X Factor judge Dannii Minogue said: "This is so humbling - I've got a box of tissues packed. It's amazing to see people do such heroic things by instinct."

Other celebrities included Sir Michael Caine, Bruce Forsyth and Spice Girls Emma Bunton and Geri Halliwell.

Among those who received awards were former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, 76, who helped pull passengers from a burning plane during the Munich air crash.

He helped to save a pregnant woman and her daughter along with several of his team-mates from the aircraft wreckage back in 1958.

Tuesday's Special Recognition honour was the first time his efforts had been formally recognised with an award.

The Prime Minister said: "The Pride of Britain Awards has become a highlight of our national calendar. They're enduring success illustrates that we as a country take the greatest pride in those who show the courage to go beyond the call of duty, the dedication to support and tend for loved ones and families, and the inspiration to transform communities."

Kevin Spacey said of Ricky McCalla, whose promising career as a dancer and choreographer was cut short when he was shot and left partially paralysed during a carjacking, but who helps young people at risk of getting involved in crime: "He could have responded to this crime that was perpetrated on him with bitterness, anger, revenge."

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