THE winners of this year’s Pride in our People awards were treated to a tour of the Houses of Parliament.
For the third year running, Ealing Central and Acton MP Angie Bray organised the trip to recognise the achievements of those who win the awards, run jointly by the Gazette and the University of West London.
Ms Bray said: “The Ealing Gazette and University of West London are to be congratulated for the Pride in our People awards. Every year it plays a very important part in recognising all the wonderful work that often goes unrecognised in our community.
“Even those who didn’t win have played their part because it helps to paint a picture of a community where people really do go that extra mile to help others and make a difference.
“Organising a visit to Parliament is my way of saying thank you for what they do and I am always delighted to have them here as my guests.”
The tour took in Westminster Hall, the Commons and Lords, as well as the robing room, where the Queen dons her robes before opening Parliament. It ended on the balcony overlooking the Thames.
Tim Wilkinson, a paramedic who won the key worker category, said: “The Pride awards was a fantastic experience, especially to meet the other winners, and this visit was a bonus – much appreciated and unexpected.”
Anna Aristodemou runs A Cut Above hair salon in The Avenue, West Ealing and won the business category.
She said: “I feel really proud to have been invited by Angie. I have been really excited since I won the award and had lots of cards and flowers from local people, tremendous feedback. This visit is the icing on the cake.”
“I am so impressed by the architecture and how well kept everything is, considering how old it is. I want to thank Angie for inviting us.”
