New award for Leeds Utd legend Eddie Gray at Yorkshire Young Achievers Awards 2025
Harrogate’s links to the annual Yorkshire Young Achievers Awards are as strong as ever with both sponsors and winners this year.
An audience of 400 gathered at Leeds United’s Centenary Pavilion in an event sponsored by McCormicks Solicitors, who are based in Harrogate.
There were three winners with strong connections to North Yorkshire.
The Achievement in Management and Enterprise Award, sponsored by CHR Estates, was won by artist James Owen Thomas, aged 24, who grew up in Pateley Bridge.
The Martin Gerrard Award, sponsored by GMI Property, for supporters of the event went to Leeds United legend Eddie Gray who lives near Harrogate and who, together with his wife Linda, has attended the awards almost from the beginning.
The Unsung Hero title, sponsored by Jamboree Entertainment, went to William Renton, 16, of Kirkby Malzeard.
Peter McCormick OBE, Chairman of the Yorkshire Young Achievers Foundation and the Awards, said: “It is heartwarming to hear how Yorkshire’s young people continue to shine and overcome challenges.
“But this recognition would not be possible without the support of our sponsors and our guests.
"I am very proud that with their help, not only can we reward these young people but we can continue our grants programme which helps young people across Yorkshire reach their full potential.”
James Owen Thomas, 24, was recognised for his inspirational and environmentally-friendly artworks created from other people’s rubbish, such as out-of-date tickets, used scratch cards and crisp packets.
The Achievement in Education award was sponsored by Harrogate Town AFC.