Golden triumph for Wire project

Receiving the award, Paul held it above his head to wild cheers and applause. In a moving speech, he thanked the multitude of voluntary organisations, councils and businesses which had helped the WIRE flourish since it was set up seven years ago.

"The WIRE believes change is possible, that all are important and it is vital we never give up. I also believe that encouragement and praise are vital to making a difference.

"It is great to be encouraged by this award. Long may encouragement be something we all work hard at," he said.

Paul thanked Wick businessman Roger Arthurs of Going Spare, not only for his continued support, but for nominating the WIRE for the award.

Roger will be joining Paul and WIRE team members when they travel to Buckingham Palace next week for the official presentation.

Visitors at the Wickbourne Chapel were treated to a display by Dance Nation and Dance Fusion, two of many different schemes run by the project.

The chapel was lined with displays and demonstrations of all the different activities, including Baby Think It Over '“ the "virtual baby scheme" designed to reduce unwanted teenage pregnancy, after-school activity Art Attack and the Festival of Wick programmes, hot off the press.