Recognition for local schools at recent Families First Awards

And the Best Pre-School and after school award went to Little Friends of Banbridge.

The glamorous gala event, took place in La Mon Country House Hotel and attracted hundreds of entries from across Northern Ireland.

The awards exist so that family’s in Northern Ireland can thank those people who make life that little bit easier or that little bit better every day, whether that’s a mummy or daddy who goes the extra mile, a granny who repeatedly saves the day, a childminder who goes above and beyond, or a child who is simply a true superhero.

As well as acknowledging the important people, the awards also acknowledge those businesses who help make every-day life happier, easier, or just that little bit more pleasurable.

Julie Doran of Bella Bambinos said they are over the moon with the award: “We are delighted to have won this fantastic award, it’s a pleasure to do what we do and we are so thankful that our hard work has paid off.

“The team are hardworking, enthusiastic and dedicated and - they are the reason we have this award and each of them should be very proud of themselves.”

Ann King, Managing Director of the Awards feels the awards make a real difference and are a wonderful way to say thank you.

“Life is hard for families and there is a lot of pressure on those with young children to do the right thing and make sure they are always doing their best for their children,” she said.

“The people and businesses nominated and those who won these awards are making a real difference to families across Northern Ireland and these awards are a great way of saying thank you.

“I’d like to thank everyone for nominating their heroes and congratulate all those who won an award, but in our eyes you are all heroes.”