February 17, 2022 - 777 views
The St David Awards are Wales’ national awards to recognise everyday heroes.
Police officers who saved a 92-year-old woman from a burning house, an ITV presenter who is a domestic abuse survivor and campaigner, and a former gambler now helping other addicts, are among those shortlisted for a national St David Awards.
The awards, which will celebrate their 9th year in 2022, recognise the extraordinary achievements of people from across Wales.
This year’s awards will be given to people and companies in 9 different categories, recognising Bravery, Community Spirit to Innovation, Science and Technology. The First Minister of Wales will also give his special award.
In April 2021, former soldier Aaron Gray from Prestatyn saved 7 people from a house fire and he has been shortlisted for a bravery award.
Having been woken early one morning by his son, who wanted a glass of milk, he noticed an orange light through the window. Thinking his car was on fire, he looked outside and noticed a fire in the garden of the neighbouring property. He phoned the fire service and then rushed outside to alert the residents of the property.
2 women and 5 children were asleep inside the bungalow and were woken by Aaron trying to rouse them. Having managed to wake them, he then helped them to leave the bungalow safely. Less than an hour later, there was not much left of the property’s roof.
Announcing the finalists, First Minister Mark Drakeford said:
"Some of the people shortlisted have shown extraordinary acts of bravery and determination. Others have shown incredible community spirit despite the pressures of living through the coronavirus pandemic.
"Our finalists are astonishing people and we are very fortunate they call Wales home. I would like to congratulate all those who have been shortlisted and I want to thank everyone who took the time to nominate someone for an award – unfortunately not everyone can make the shortlist."
The winners will be announced in a ceremony on 7 April 2022.
