A children’s entertainer at Stepping Hill Hospital’s children’s unit has won a top award which celebrates the country’s greatest unsung heroes. 

Charles ‘Skip’ Hamilton beat off tough competition to win the regional ‘Pride of Britain’ award for his outstanding dedication. He was nominated for the ‘North West local hero’ category by nurses on the ward for bringing a smile to poorly children’s faces in Stockport for 60 years.

Skip started when he was a scout leader, and worked at Marple Orthopaedic Hospital, Cherry Tree Hospital and Stockport Infirmary before moving on to Stepping Hill Hospital in 2000.

He shows children how to play games from all around the world, and is particularly adept at teaching children how to make paper aeroplanes.  Now aged 78, Skip shows no sign of slowing down.

Skip said, “I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this award, its beyond words. Volunteering is just pure enjoyment for me, but it’s wonderful to be appreciated.”

Ward sister Claire Gibson, who nominated skip alongside her colleague Katie Davison said, “He really deserves this for being such an awesome volunteer. He is dedicated, committed, and the children love him.”   

Skip will now attend the national Pride of Britain award ceremony in London on October 7th where the  overall winner will be announced.

 See Skip receive the surprise news