A Southport man who was honoured for his heroism at the Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards spoke about the importance of “mental health, resilience, and looking out for 1 another” on his return to Meols Cop High School in Southport.

Liam Howard, who won the Sefton Courage Award sponsored by EFT Group in April, said he was “sincerely grateful” to be invited back to speak at his former school. 

At the Grand pride Of Sefton Awards at The Grand in Southport, Liam was hailed as “an absolute hero” after he saved the man’s life – giving his relieved family new memories together. 

Liam was on duty at the NCP car park on London Street in Southport town centre, next to Southport Train Station, in October when he stepped in to help the man, who was in distress and trying to take his own life. 

The man has now fully recovered  – and has been able to spend a very happy Christmas and a memorable holiday with his family.  

Liam Howard said:- “There are some places that never leave your heart, and for me, Meols Cop High School is 1 of them. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Meols Cop High School for the wonderful invitation to return to my former secondary school, speak with the students, and contribute an article to the Aspire Newsletter. It was an incredible honour and a truly nostalgic experience to walk through those familiar doors once again. I am sincerely grateful for the exceptionally warm welcome I received. My thanks go to the fantastic student leaders who interviewed me with such professionalism and enthusiasm, the dedicated teachers and staff whose commitment to their students is so evident, and the Headteacher for the kindness and encouragement shown throughout my visit."

He continued:- “It was genuinely inspiring to see how much the school continues to flourish and to meet so many thoughtful, ambitious, and compassionate young people. Meols Cop has always held a special place in my heart, and it fills me with immense pride to see the positive environment that has been created for today's students. Being able to share my own journey and speak openly about the importance of mental health, resilience, and looking out for one another is something I am deeply passionate about. If my experiences help even one young person feel less alone, encourage someone to ask for help, or inspire them to believe in themselves, then every moment has been worthwhile. I feel incredibly fortunate and humbled to have been given this opportunity, and I hope this is the 1st of many future visits. It would be a privilege to continue supporting such an outstanding school community."

Liam added:- “Thank you once again to everyone at Meols Cop High School for your kindness, generosity, and warm hospitality. I wish every student, member of staff, and the wider school community continued success and happiness for the future. Have a wonderful, well-earned, and relaxing summer holiday - you have all earned it. It’s been a real honour to return to my former primary and secondary schools in the past few months and meet, talk to the students, teachers, and headteachers. Thank you so much for the invitation and warm welcome - I’m incredibly grateful.”