Rugby league journalist Gary Carter honoured at O2 Media Awards
Well respected rugby league journalist Gary Carter was given a standing ovation at the 2019 O2 Media Awards North West on Thursday night as he collected an O2 Stand Out Award.
Carter suffered severe brain injuries in an unprovoked street attack in London when covering an England rugby league international back in 2015. He was in a coma for six weeks after he was punched to the ground and then spent four years in rehabilitation, where he learned how to walk and talk again.
He then joined the editorial team at Local Communications Limited, who publish the Saddleworth Independent newspaper, while continuing to cover rugby league and football for The Sun.
Carter scooped the O2 Stand Out Award for his courage and determination to return to his job and collected the award alongside his wife, Gemma, who left her job in social care to assist Gary while he went through his rehabilitation process.
To say I am shocked would be an understatement! Such a privilege to have this award presented to me by Eddie and Stevo #O2mediaawards2019 https://t.co/PeoMgIG3Sh
— Gary Carter (@GaryCarter_1979) November 7, 2019
Meanwhile, former Sky Sports rugby league commentator Eddie Hemmings also received an O2 Stand Out award to mark his 30 years in the industry. He retired from rugby league commentary earlier this year.
More than 300 media professionals attended the O2 Media Awards North West event at the AJ Bell Stadium on Thursday.
So proud ❤️ #O2MediaAwards2019 https://t.co/EmJqiwfexs
— Gemma Carter (@Gemma_L_Carter) November 7, 2019
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