The first one was staged at the Civic Centre Gateshead. From that year on, it has been at the Dryden Centre, Gateshead. 
Even the pandemic didn’t stop the awards going ahead! In 2020, Steve, along with his co-host, The then Learning Skills manager Sonya Anderson, did a regional tour in which the winners were “Door stepped”
It was all filmed with socially distanced guidelines strictly adhered to.
 
 
In 2021, Steve, once again with Sonya, hosted a virtual awards via Zoom in a green screen studio.
 
2022 saw the event return to an in person awards. It was great to return to the Dryden Centre. These awards were superbly organised by Michelle Hall.
 
These awards are so inspirational, with some amazing stories of people overcoming difficulties and challenges to succeed.

“We have worked with Steve for many, many years and each and every time he excels. He is the epitome of professional and holds everything together for us even when, behind the scenes, things may be going wrong. You can put your full trust behind Steve and you know you’re in safe hands, no matter what the event. He’s always a winner with any audience whether he’s telling a joke, singing a song, or hosting an event. We’ll be making sure we book him for many years to come.”
Melanie Crosby, Head of Learning and Skills at Gateshead Council

Steve would like to say a massive thank you to Melanie Crosby & Michelle Hall. It was Mel who initially booked Steve. She’s been organiser, producer / director of the awards and just about everything else over the years!