The Collaborative Network’s LGBTQ+ FLOWERS Awards debuted at the Titanic Hotel
Liverpool, marking a historic celebration of the contributions and achievements of the LGBTQ+
community and their allies across the North West. The night brought together inspirational
figures and trailblazers dedicated to building a more inclusive world.
Among the evening’s highlights was actress and LGBTQ+ icon Cheryl Fergison, who hosted the
event with warmth and energy, even performing a rendition of The Greatest Showman’s “This is
Me”. DJ Mark Armstrong and the Kylie Minogue tribute, I Should Be So Kylie, kept the
entertainment high – making it a night to remember.
One of the standout moments was honouring Elaine Clarke OBE, a pioneer in Liverpool’s
hospitality scene and the CEO of Baa Bar Limited, with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Elaine’s journey began in the early 1980s, working in Café Tabac and other local venues before
taking on a leadership role in 1991. Her dedication to shaping Liverpool’s nightlife and her
service to the hospitality industry and LGBTQ+ community earned her this prestigious
recognition.


The event also celebrated other exceptional winners, including:
● Crispin Pailing – LGBTQ+ Ally Award, Sponsored by KISS Dental UK
● Athena Barbital, Heaven Liverpool – Rising Star Award, Sponsored by Maddison J
Creations
● The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Diversity Champion Award
● Darren Begley, Shakespeare North Playhouse – Creative Industries Person of the Year
Award, Sponsored by Ocular Media
● Sarah Lovelock, Lovelocks Coffee Shop – Hospitality Person of the Year, Sponsored by
Box Leisure Recruitment
● In Club (Melissa Kenny & Alex Gregory-Chialton) – Network/Support Group of the Year,
Sponsored by Dobie Optimum Fitness
● Kolade T Ladipo, Noire Gayze – Community Impact Award, Sponsored by Wirral Mind
● MSB Solicitors – Best Employer, Sponsored by Homes for Students
● Rian Bailey Weir, The Nice Exchange – Drew Cockton Entrepreneur of the Year Award,
Sponsored by Owen Drew England
● Scandals – Business of the Year, Sponsored by Liverpool BID Company
● Ant Hopkinson, Sahir House – Inspirational Leader Award, in partnership with Alpine UK
Co-founders Josef Hollywood, radio presenter on Capital, and Mike Skeggs, Director at Owen
Drew, expressed their gratitude to attendees, sponsors, and partners: “Last night was a dream
come true. We were blown away by the incredible energy and support. Thank you to everyone
who joined us.”


The LGBTQ+ FLOWERS Awards spotlight those driving positive change in LGBTQ+
representation, equality, and inclusivity. With such overwhelming success, excitement is already
building for the 2025 awards, which promise to continue celebrating excellence in the
community.
For more information on the LGBTQ+ FLOWERS Awards, visit:
thecollaborativenetwork.co.uk