'Our Daily Mirror Pride of Britain award winners really are the very best of us'

The King and Prime Minister are right: the winners of Monday's Daily Pride of Britain awards really are the very best of us.

On the 25th anniversary of the occasion, we celebrate those extraordinary people who make our country a very special place to live. The stars are not big names from showbiz, TV, film, music and sport. Instead, the celebrities are the ones doing the applauding as they pay tribute to unsung heroes from communities across Britain.

You can read about them in the Mirror and watch the special at 8pm on Thursday. Keep a handkerchief or box of tissues nearby, as it will be hard not to feel moved by some of the incredible, selfless feats. The country will join and in saluting the .

READ MORE:

Vote is vital

A champion of workers, TUC chief Paul Nowak is on the money by declaring that MPs must aim to be on the right side of history when improved rights are debated today in the Commons. Those who vote for the Government’s radical package will be helping to build a fairer, more prosperous and decent country.

Those who vote against will be judged harshly by history because they will be remaining rooted in an unequal past instead of creating a brighter future. Ending exploitation, bringing bad bosses to heel and sinking forever scandals such as ’ mass sacking of British seafarers to replace them with cheaper labour is something worth voting for.

Hoy's courage

Hearts go out to Sir , a winner of six cycling Olympic gold medals – but more importantly a husband and father of two young children. His courage, and that of his family, in dealing with terminal is inspiring. It will be recognised by many others living in the shadow of an unforgiving, indiscriminate and cruel illness.