Attending his first ever Pride of Britain Awards, David Beckham said he was "excited" and that it was a real "honour" to be there. The former England football captain was given the joy of presenting an award to one very special recipient – Sohanna Collins.
The 13-year-old suffers from a rare genetic skin disease that means she is more prone to breaking out in blisters and third-degree burns. Sohanna has helped raised £3.5million to help other children like her, and was presented with the Teenager of Courage Award for her efforts.
Before Sohanna and David walked out on stage, the father-of-four sweetly put the young girl at ease, saying: "You look beautiful and your dress is fantastic. It's a real honour to meet you."
"You look beautiful and your dress is fantastic," David Beckham told award winner Sohanna Collins
The popular sportsman later shared a picture on Instagram and wrote alongside it: "Incredible night at Pride of Britain Awards and met this special girl Sohanna. Honoured to present her with the Teenager of Courage Award."
David looked as sharp as ever for the glittering ceremony that was held at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London. The suave 40-year-old wore a black suit and crisp white shirt, and paired it with a stylish knitted tie.
Also joining David on the red carpet was a host of celebrities, including Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Peter Andre and his new wife Emily MacDonagh and Simon Cowell, who sported a new salt and pepper beard.
© Photo: Getty Images"It's incredible," said David of the glittering Pride of Britain Awards
Each year the Pride of Britain Awards celebrate the nation's bravest and truly remarkable people. Among those honoured were the rescue team who helped those involved in the Alton Towers Smiler crash, as well as aid workers who risked their lives to save Ebola victims.
"It's incredible," said David of the event. "It's what the night is all about – so many great young heroes who are going to have an amazing night."
The ceremony will be televised on ITV on Thursday at 8pm.
