"Our incredible night at Pride of Britain awards"

Ray (76) made the shortlist for the national award after being crowned the Yorkshire Pride of Britain fundraiser of the year.

But with him unable to make the glitzy award ceremony in London on Monday, it was left to son Gary and granddaughter Holly to hang out with the likes of singers Rod Stewart and Nicole Scherzinger.

Gary (57) said his highlight of the night was being in the toilet alongside Rod and Ozzy Osborne, while Holly (22) even paused on the red carpet to sign autographs.

Gary said: “It was a bit surreal to be honest. We were literally in a room full of heroes.

“I went into the toilet and Rod Stewart came in and stood alongside me. Then Ozzy Osborne walked in. It was like some kind of weird dream.

“It was a fabulous night and quite moving as well when you hear some of the stories of those who have won the awards.”

Ray, of Maltby, was nominated after completing 75 marathons in 75 days to raise money for Newman School.

Gary added: “I am really proud to think my dad was shortlisted alongside some truly amazing people.

“I felt a bit of a fraud because we were surrounded by all these people who have done amazing things.”

Holly said it was an incredible” night and she felt really proud of her grandad.

“As I was walking down the red carpet people were asking for my autograph. It was just so surreal,” she said.

“It was the most incredible night ever. I loved every minute of it.”