Hero lollipop lady up for Welsh bravery award

Karin Williams, from Rhoose, is a finalist at the inaugural St David Awards, which recognise the achievements of people in Wales.

Lollipop lady Karin came to national attention in June last year when she dived into the path of an accelerating car which was heading towards children outside Rhws Primary School.

Karin, 50, suffered multiple broken bones, including both of her legs, and injuries after taking the brunt of the impact when a 61-year-old man lost control of his car during a coughing fit.

Following on from her Outstanding Bravery award at the Pride of Britain awards last October, Karin is now up for a St David Award.

The finalists were announced by First Minister Carwyn Jones, he said: "“I am told that picking finalists from the many worthy entrants received was no easy task, but the people who have been chosen exemplify the reason I established the awards.

"I wanted to be able to recognise the extraordinary achievements made by the people of Wales, people who I meet regularly during my visits across the country, people who go above and beyond to make a difference to life in Wales.

“I do not envy the task of picking the winner of each category, although all are deserving and should feel very proud of their achievements. I now look forward to the actual awards ceremony in March.”

The eight award categories are bravery, citizenship, culture, enterprise, innovation and technology, sport, international, and young person.

There is also a ninth award, the First Minister’s Special Award, which will be chosen personally by the First Minister and for which people could not be nominated.

The finalists were decided by an independent panel of judges, chaired by Lord David Rowe Beddoe.

The winner for each category will be announced in an award ceremony at the Royal Welsh College for Music and Drama in Cardiff on Thursday, March 13, which will be televised by S4C, with English commentary available.