VIDEO: Woman of the Year Awards 2013

The glamorous occasion took place last night (Friday, 22) at the Hilton Avisford in Arundel. “I’m excited to just celebrate women,” said former Olympic champion and host, Sally Gunnell. “I’ve always been involved in a men’s world with sport and we always have to shout about what we have done. “It is great that we have awards like this to celebrate them. “Just being nominated for this, the second Woman of the Year awards, is a huge achievement when you look at how many outstanding women there are in our area.” Women were recognised for their achievements in 17 categories celebrating everything from charity work to sport. Amanda Paine won the Inspirational Woman award, but also took home Overall Woman of the Year for her work with the National Council for Palliative Care and as a Dying Matters champion. “I’m feeling very emotional,” said Amanda, after picking up her award. “It is fantastic the charities are being recognised. “But the award isn’t for me. Its for everyone we work with and help.” The event was organised by JP South Events, with supporting sponsors from around the county. The headline sponsors were Euphoric Hair and Beauty from Worthing. Director Zoe Clark said: “This year I had the honour to be a judge which gave me a chance to see the other side of the awards process. “We have picked some brilliant individuals.” A full report, interviews and pictures of the event will be in next week’s paper. The winners Woman in Uniform - Hayley Fairclough Woman in Community, Charity or Volunary Sector - Lydia Wilson Woman in Fashion - Gay Richardson Hair and Beauty - Katy Jobbins Woman in Arts - Karen Platt Young Woman - Candi Gilroy Success Story - Elkie Holland Woman in Education - Eileen Darby Mum of the Year - Kerry Okaines Woman of Courage - Gemma Griggs Sportswoman - Julia Tarley Online Business - Steph Savill Inspirational Woman - Amanda Paine Woman to Watch - Hannah Murphy Business Woman - Claire Allaker Readers’ Choice - Eileen Darby Overall Woman of the Year - Amanda Paine