SuperKids get their reward

THE BOLD, the brave and the bright all took to the stage for The Star SuperKids awards 2007 - which had a distinct out-of-this-world feel thanks to a Doctor Who theme.
The ceremony, held at Sheffield's Hilton Hotel, honoured youngsters who had battled disease, saved lives and achieved goals.Celebrities - including Life on Mars star Dean Andrews - mingled with cybermen during the star- studded event that saw 11 special youngsters pick up an award for their hard work.Compered by The Star's magazines editor John Highfield and presented by Look North anchorman Harry Gration, SuperKids is an annual event, sponsored by Meadowhall, that recognises the achievements of youngsters throughout South Yorkshire.Sports stars, actors, musicians and even Daleks all put in an appearance to pay homage to the children - all of whom had shown courage and intelligence in the face of adversity."It is a real privilege to be involved in these awards," said rock star John Parr who performed at the ceremony as well as presenting an award."It is a great day out for the kids, it marks some great achievements and is a great celebration."Winners included 15-year-old Chris Badger - a Rotherham schoolboy with cerebral palsy and a love of music."Music is a passion for me, something I love," said Chris, who was nominated for his award by singer/songwriter and Boy on a Dolphin frontman John
Riley."I just want to thank John Riley for giving me the opportunity to be here - it is fantastic to work with him. "I have to say thank you to my teachers too and to everyone here. I have really enjoyed the day."Boxing legends Junior Witter, Clinton Woods and Johnny Nelson all handed out awards as did former Coronation street actor Chris Walker.John Leeson, the voice of Dr Who dog K9, helped to present four-year-old Ben Roe, from Doncaster, who despite his young age is battling leukaemia for a second time, with his special award.Sheffield Wednesday, United and Steelers stars were also on hand to inspire the winners who were also kept entertained by a magician during a three-course lunch."What all of these children have done is worth shouting from the roof tops," said actor Chris Walker."We should be letting everyone know just what these young people have achieved."