Dianan Parkes has received a Pride of Britain award in recognition of her work to support children affected by domestic violence.
She and Hetti Barkworth-Nanton, friend of Diana’s daughter Joanna Simpson, who was killed by her partner have received a Special Recognition Award.
The pair are receiving the award their work over the last decade to support children affected by domestic abuse and homicide with the Joanna Simpson Foundation.
The Foundation explained how Queen Camilla was involved in helping to surprise Diana and Hetti with the award.
It said: “Queen Camilla had worked with the Pride of Britain team and Hetti to convince Diana she was needed at Clarence House to film a documentary.
“The Queen then surprised Diana in revealing that she and Hetti would be receiving a Pride of Britain Award.”
Astonished
Diana said: “I was astonished and honoured to learn I would be receiving a Pride of Britain Award.
“Whilst this Award recognises the campaigning I have done over the years, this moment would not be happening had my wonderful, talented and special daughter, Joanna, not been brutally killed in 2010.
“It is her horrific death that led me on this path to co-founding The Joanna Simpson Foundation and ensure children who are affected by domestic homicide and abuse are supported.
“Domestic homicide and abuse shatters the lives of the children affected in so many ways, leaving scars that last a lifetime.
“Every child exposed to these violent acts carries the weight of that trauma, which reminds us, as a society, we must act urgently to protect them and break the cycle of abuse for future generations.
“With this Pride of Britain’s Special Recognition Award, I will continue to do everything I can to support and raise awareness around the impact domestic abuse and homicide has on children.
“I would like to thank Jo’s children, my son and my husband for all their love and support. Also many thanks to Hetti Barkworth-Nanton for all her support in campaigning alongside me over the years.”
The Pride of Britain Awards will be broadcast on ITV1 on Thursday from 8pm.
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