Children's Stars Awards 2008 winners announced

Inspirational children's professionals from across the country received national recognition at the Oscars of the childcare world, the Children's Stars Awards 2008, on Thursday 26 June 2008.

The glamorous event was hosted by TV and Radio Star, Neil Fox, and attended by a wealth of VIPs in central London. Organised by national children's charity, 4Children, the awards honour the unsung heroes who work day in, day out to improve the lives of children and young people.

The Children's Stars Award 2008 Winners are:

- Edexcel Playworker of the Year
Gary Forbes, Ealing Play Service (London)

- Early Years Practitioner of the Year
Carol Hines (Peterborough)

- Childminder of the Year
Tracey Mills (Staines)

- Newcomer of the Year (joint winners)

Gerry Garvey (Carlisle) Michelle Cotterill (Long Eaton)

- Integrated Children's Team of the Year Riversley Park Children's Centre (Nuneaton, Warwickshire)

- TDA Extended School Team of the Year
Marion Richardson Extended School Team (Stepney, London)

- Working Links Children Centre Team of the Year Sure Start Scarborough - The Parent Network Volunteers (Scarborough)

- Morton Michel Childcare Team of the Year Parents as Partners in Early Learning Team (Tower Hamlets, London)

- Make Space Youth Team of the Year
Gateshead Young Women's Outreach Project (Gateshead, Tyne and Wear)

- CWDC Lifetime Achievement Award
Dame Gillian Pugh

- Young Achiever of the Year Award
Richard Ludbrook (Milton Keynes)

The national awards scheme is run annually by national children's charity, 4Children, and is supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Anne Longfield OBE, Chief Executive of 4Children, said:
"No job is more important than looking after our children. The winners of the Children's Stars Awards have achieved something truly remarkable and deserve to be recognised and celebrated."

TV and Radio Star, Neil Fox, said:
"The Children's Stars Awards are a great opportunity to say a big thank you to all those who look after our children and bring fun inspiration into their lives. Well done to all children's workers and especially the winners whose passion and commitment has opened new opportunities and made a real difference to children's lives."