8:31am Thursday 3rd December 2009
BANNATYNE’S own Local Heroes will be treated as VIP guests at tonight’s awards ceremony.
The company has announced the winners of its Search for a Club Hero competition and they will all be given celebrity treatment.
They and their partners will be pampered with a relaxing and invigorating treatment at the Bannatyne Spa, at Bannatyne’s Health Club, in Haughton Road, Darlington.
They will then be treated to a chauffer- driven trip to the awards ceremony and an overnight stay at the Bannatyne Hotel, in Southend Avenue, Darlington.
Nigel Armstrong, managing director of The Bannatyne Group, said: “Each of these members has shown real dedication and commitment, whether it’s been through improving their lifestyles or by helping others.
“The Local Heroes Awards will be a fantastic event and I am sure our members will have a great time rubbing shoulders with North-East sports stars, as well as taking the opportunity to be pampered and relax at the Bannatyne Spa and the Bannatyne Hotel.”
The Bannatyne heroes are: Joe Elsender, Chester-le-Street: Joe, 71, has completed the Great North Run more than 20 times, despite being partially-sighted. He has raised thousands of pounds for charity and helped establish a running club at Bannatyne’s in Chester-le-Street, as well as a running club for local children.
Peter Swan, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough: For the past five years, Peter has been leading the Meseran Project, a charity that creates opportunities for young people in Middlesbrough and Africa.
Donna Gilmore, Darlington: Donna became a Good Samaritan to fellow member Ron Howe when he broke his leg in a fall. Donna came to the rescue and has been driving Ron to Bannatyne’s so he can meet up with friends.
Jill Young, Durham: Jill has enjoyed a huge lifestyle change since she joined Bannatyne’s last year. She developed her fitness so much that she entered her first Great North Run this year, raising £400 for charity.
Jennifer Clark, Ingleby Barwick: Jennifer has lost five stones since swapping the sofa for the treadmill to kickstart her healthy lifestyle.
■ Don’t miss the results in tomorrow’s paper and a souvenir pull-out of the event next Monday.
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