Helen Worth thanked the people of Manchester for showing the world the city would not be defeated by terrorism.
The ‘Coronation Street’ legend – known for playing Gail Platt on the ITV soap – and ‘Cold Feet’ actor John Thomson presented the Judges’ Special Award to The Spirit of Manchester at the Pride of Manchester Awards on Wednesday night (08.05.19).
The prize recognises how the 2.5 million people in the city have come together following the horrific 2017 Manchester Arena terror attack, a suicide bombing which occurred at an Ariana Grande concert at the venue, leaving 23 dead and 139 wounded.
Helen told the crowd: "Thank you for showing the world that an act of terrorism cannot defeat the spirit of Manchester."
John added: "The key word of the night is pride. The running theme is love, it’s inspiring – so much compassion and humility.
"Everyone in the room tonight are the true celebrities."
Among those killed were ‘Corrie’ super-fan Martyn Hett, whose mother Figen Murray was among those collecting the Judges’ Special Award at the ceremony at Manchester’s The Principal Hotel.
Former ‘Corrie’ star Paula Lane (Kylie Platt) recently portrayed Martyn’s best friend Rachel in theatre production ‘#BeMoreMartyn: The Boy with the Deirdre Tattoo’, which celebrated his life.
She said: "He was such a big fan that he had a tattoo of Deirdre Barlow on his calf. I know he will have watched me as Kylie Platt on TV all the time.
"I also have a feeling our paths may have crossed at some point.
"Martyn would be totally made-up to know about this play and I feel it’s been sent my way for a reason.
"I’m sure some of my ‘Corrie’ colleagues will be coming to see me, plus I’m really looking forward to taking the play to Brighton and London."
And last year, Faye Brookes – who plays Kate Connor on the cobbles – was inked with a bee tattoo in tribute to the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing.
She shared a picture of her tattoo and wrote "proud" on the image.
Helen Worth praises people of Manchester’s spirit
