A host of celebrities will honour the achievements of stroke survivors at a star-studded Life After Stroke Awards in Central London on Thursday 2 June 2011.

Famous faces attending include singer Stacey Solomon, presenter Lynda Bellingham, Strictly dancer Kristina Rihanoff, actors Amanda Donohoe and Charlie Clements, Turner Prize nominated artist Angela de la Cruz, war hero Johnson Beharry, football manager George Burley and West End performers Mark Evans and Louise Dearman.

This year's winners range from a young man aged only 17 who is battling back to fitness following a devastating stroke 12 months ago, to an 84 year old gentleman who is seen as an inspiration to all of his fellow stroke club members despite his communication difficulties. There are a total of eleven Life After Stroke Awards dished out at Claridge's Hotel in what always proves to be an emotional day for both winners and guests alike.

Jon Barrick, Chief Executive at The Stroke Association commented, "Around one million people in the UK are living with the effects of stroke. The Life After Stroke Awards not only highlight how stroke can affect anyone at any age, but also the impact the condition has on families, carers and health care professionals.

"All of the award winners have shown tremendous courage in rebuilding their lives after a stroke or in helping others to do the same. I am delighted that we are able to recognise and celebrate their achievements with some of our celebrity friends."

Notes

1. Over 250 people from across the UK were nominated for a Life After Stroke Award in 2011.

2. The Life After Stroke Awards 2011 is sponsored by Next.

3. Winners details:

Children and Young People's (under 18) Courage Award - Tom, aged 17, from Norfolk.
Adult Courage Award (18-64 years old) - Helen, 44, from Birmingham.
Adult Courage Award (65 years and over) - Albert, 84, from Redditch.
Carer's Award - Michelle, 33, Lisburn, Northern Ireland.
Excellence in Stroke Care Award - Gemma, 29, is a speech and language therapist from Rotherham.
Stroke Club Award - 'Step Forward Support Group' from Lichfield.
The Stroke Association Award for Volunteering - Steven, 52, from Sunderland.
Susie Hulks Memorial Award for Art - John, 62, from Downham Market in Norfolk
Trusts Supporter Award - The Henry Smith Charity
Corporate Supporter Award - eBay for Charity
Most Improved Stroke Service - Sunderland Community Rehab Team

Source:
The Stroke Association