A host of inspiring fundraisers were celebrated at the GoCardless JustGiving Awards in London, with honours going to a range of individuals, including the late rugby league legend Rob Burrow and an eight-year-old boy who survived sepsis. The event, held at the Roundhouse on Wednesday, 18 September, was hosted by TV presenter and DJ Rylan Clark.
Among the seven award winners, the Special Recognition Award was given in honour of Rob Burrow, the former Leeds Rhinos player who raised £15 million for charity. Burrow, who died of motor neurone disease (MND), was remembered for his outstanding contribution to fundraising, particularly in raising awareness of MND. His wife, Lindsey Burrow, accepted the award on his behalf, alongside their close friend Kevin Sinfield, who was instrumental in supporting the fundraising efforts.
The GoCardless JustGiving Awards, which attracted more than 18,000 nominations and over 50,000 votes from the public, recognised the extraordinary efforts of those raising money for causes close to their hearts. The winners and finalists together raised a staggering £16 million for charitable organisations across the country.
Speaking after the ceremony, Rylan Clark said: “It was incredible to host last night’s GoCardless JustGiving Awards and to see first-hand the impact these individuals have made. They should all be incredibly proud of themselves.”
The finalists were selected by a panel of judges that included a mix of celebrities and public figures. Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden, Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds, broadcaster Adele Roberts, TV personality Jake Quickenden, and Loose Women presenter Sunetra Sarker were among those who helped decide the final winners. JustGiving President Pascale Harvie and Pat Phelan, Managing Director of event sponsor GoCardless, were also part of the judging panel.
Notable attendees at the event included ITV presenter Charlotte Hawkins, Love Island’s Faye Winter, former Olympian Fatima Whitbread, and Celebrity Big Brother’s Bradley Riches.
Reflecting on the achievements of the night, Pascale Harvie, President of JustGiving, said: “It was an honour to celebrate and recognise the incredible finalists at our awards ceremony. Every individual who steps forward to support a good cause is truly amazing, and while they don’t do it for recognition, they certainly deserve it. On behalf of everyone at JustGiving, congratulations again to all of our finalists and winners. You are all extraordinary.”
Pat Phelan, Managing Director for UK and Ireland at GoCardless, added: “We are incredibly proud to be a part of the GoCardless JustGiving Awards. It’s been an honour to ensure these remarkable fundraisers are properly celebrated for their remarkable achievements.”
For more information on the GoCardless JustGiving Award winners, visit JustGiving’s website.