STAR SUPERKIDS: Jasmyn’s heroism recognised

The Star's Sheffield Superkids Awards 2015 held at Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham. The Shining Star Award presented by The Star went to joint winners Jasmyn Chan and Skye Thompson. Gail Stigant is pictured with Jasmyn's mum Paula.

Jasmyn lost her life last in May 2014 after being caught up in a hit and run, in which she managed to save the live of her friend.

Since the 14-year-old’s death, campaigners and a 12,000 strong petition convinced the council to install Jazzy’s Crossing on Normanton Hill, which was unveiled this year and which will undoubtedly protect many other people.

Jasmyn’s mum Paula McCullie, who attended the awards evening along with Jasmyn’s dad Peter Chan and other family members of the Frecheville girl, previously described Jasmyn as ‘a beautiful, loving and generous girl with a heart of pure gold.’

She said: “Some people are just born special – Jasmyn was one of those.”

The Shining Star award was presented on the night to Jasmyn’s family by The Star’s Deputy Head of Multimedia Gael Stigant, who said: “No one could fail to be moved by the story of Jasmyn’s incredible heroism in the moments leading up to when she tragically lost her life.

“It was a very emotional night for her family and I think they were touched to see just how much their daughter has touched the lives of the whole Sheffield community.

“The crossing which has been built in her memory will be keeping children safe for generations to come and for that reason, Jasmyn’s legacy lives on.”

Jasmyn’s dad Peter added: “There were about 12 of us who came together for the awards ceremony. We’re very proud of Jasmyn’s legacy and it means a lot to us to be there for her – she’s taken herself to a level very few people normally get to and keeps knocking us over with these awards.

“In the end though, I couldn’t even get up on the stage to collect the award with her mum; it’s difficult because we’re proud of the recognition of her, but it’s come at such a price.

“We’ve been short-changed, in the end, because Jasmyn’s no longer here. Nothing feels normal any more. I still feel lost at sea most days. We get through for her, but it’s not easy.

Jasmyn’s parents recently received an In Memorium award, on Jasmyn’s behalf, from The Royal Humane Society, who described her as ‘a selfless heroine’.

Society secretary Dick Wilkinson described Jasmyn as a ‘tremendously brave girl’ ahead of the London ceremony where Jasmyn’s award was presented to her parents by Princess Alexandra.