AN eagerly anticipated event to reward some of St Helens’ shining stars has secured the services of Liverpool culture ambassador Phil Redmond, BBC TV presenter Ranvir Singh and ex-Saints skipper Paul Sculthorpe.

The maiden St Helens Cultural Awards 2009 will see two glittering events take place on Friday, February 27 and Saturday, February 28 at The World of Glass.

On both nights, the audience will salute youngsters and adults who have made a big impression in art, writing, music and sport.

North West tonight presenter Ranvir Singh will host the Cultural Awards on the Saturday night.

Cllr Wally Ashcroft, St Helens Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Sport and Heritage, said: “St Helens has a real passion for culture which is demonstrated in our exciting and vibrant cultural scene.

“This is the first event of its kind in St Helens and it will honour and recognise our Cultural Award winners, of all ages and abilities in the arts, sport and heritage."

The Youth Cultural Awards on the Friday will be a dedicated event for young people. Former Saints ace Paul Sculthorpe will make a guest appearance.

The following evening will see with the Cultural Awards take place, at which Liverpool 08 culture boss Phil Redmond will deliver a speech.

Organisers at St Helens Council say they are “extremely privileged that the Vice Chair of the Liverpool Culture Company has given his time and support to these awards during such a busy year”.

Entertainment for both events will be a showcase of the town’s cultural champions and achievers, with a diverse mix of performances and music provided by schools and organisations, including St Helens Sinfonietta and St Helens Choral Society.

Cllr Ashcroft added: “The St Helens Cultural community has much to be proud of, with a winning combination of creative collaborations and imaginative events.

“These awards will celebrate the accomplishments and showcase the talents of organisations, teams or individuals, who have demonstrated a dedicated, creative and innovative way of promoting and endorsing cultural excellence in our borough.”