This has to be my favourite award of all time… Me and my family had such a special day last Friday at Nottingham Trent University where I was honoured to receive the ‘Outstanding Alumni Fellow Award’.

This award is so special to me as giving back to NTU is an absolute pleasure, because of the amazing foundation they gave me when I graduated there 21 years ago. I feel so grateful to belong to the NTU family.

My beautiful Mum gave back all her life and would be so proud of this, we are still not used to her not being with us since last year and miss her more than words can say. My Dad, our hero is by our side, cheerleading as ever.

So this lovely award that means so much, is dedicated to my amazing parents, Jeanette and Cliff – as your unconditional love, support, encouragement and dedication to give back to others is truly inspiring. I would not be standing here today without you both, I am so very proud to be your daughter.