Last night at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation (LGF)’s 2011 ‘Homo Hero’ Awards, Manchester Pride’s festival director Jackie Crozier received the ‘Community Champion of the Year’ prize.

The ceremony, which featured categories such as ‘Public Sector Partner of the Year’, ‘Business of the Year’ and ‘LGB&T Venue of the Year’, was held at The Mint Hotel and celebrated the hard-work and dedication of those groups, organisations and individuals who help make Manchester’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community as strong as it is today.

Vicken Couligian, Chair of Manchester Pride, said: “It comes as no surprise to me that Jackie has won this award. The work she has done for the organisation and her presence amongst our community is evident throughout Manchester. I am extremely proud and pleased for her – congratulations Jackie, on being a fantastic community hero for Manchester’s LGBT community!”

Crozier, who has led Manchester Pride for four years and been a part of the charity organisation for a total of six, has a background in charity work and has always been supportive of LGBT fundraising events and causes throughout Manchester and beyond, with organisations such as the LGF, The Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT) and The George House Trust (GHT). Despite not being able to attend the event last night she is said to be thrilled with the reward, and proud to be able to contribute to such a fantastic and thriving community of LGBT people in Manchester.

Actress, singer and Manchester Pride patron Heather Peace, who collected the award on behalf of Crozier last night, said: “This award could not have gone to a more deserving person. Jackie is a very good friend of mine and I have known her for a long time; the LGBT community in Manchester means so much to her and the ‘Community Champion of the Year’ award shows real recognition for the hard work she has done. Well done Jackie!”

For a full list of the categories and their winners, please see the LGF website:

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ENDS

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Manchester Pride Press Office

Tel: 0161 831 7700

Email: press@manchesterpride.com