Worksop’s Bailey picks up second award

Bailey Matthews, 8, was handed the Richard Whiteley Award at the glitzy ceremony last night, Friday, October 16.

The Yorkshire Awards, now in their 27th year recognise the achievements of people and businesses.

Bailey competed in the children’s Tri-athlon event at Castle Howard in North Yorkshire in July, swimming 100m, riding a bike for four km and running for 1.3 km.

Despite stumbling twice on his way to the finish line, he picked himself up and ran the final 20m of the course without his walking frame.

Bailey’s family said: “We are extremely honoured to receive the Richard Whiteley award for Bailey’s efforts and it makes it all the more special with being proud northerners.”

Bailey was diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy when he was 18 months-old, a neurological condition that affects movement and co-ordination.

His latest accolade follows the Pride of Britain Award he received last month where he was given a standing ovation and met football superstar, David Beckham.

He had even been surprised by TV personality David Walliams on a sight-seeing trip to the Tower of London in which Walliams, who was dressed as a Queen’s Guard, told him that he had been chosen for the award.