TV star set to make big impression

Award-winning TV star Debra Stephenson is guaranteed to make a big impression when she takes to the stage at next month’s Shropshire Chamber Business Awards.

The actress, comedienne and impressionist will be providing after-dinner entertainment at the black tie event, being held at Telford’s International Centre on June 23.

Debra was the face behind many of the voices in hit TV show Spitting Image, and has also starred in prime-time programmes such as The Impressions Show with John Culshaw, and The Imitation Game with Rory Bremner.

Her trademark comedic impressions of well-known politicians, singers and celebrities are currently featuring in a critically-acclaimed touring theatre show, The Many Voices of Debra Stephenson.

She is also known by soap fans for playing Frankie Baldwin in nearly 300 episodes of Coronation Street, and won a best actress award for her performance in the gritty prison drama Bad Girls.

Ruth Ross, Shropshire Chamber’s chief executive, said: “We are really looking forward to Debra playing a memorable part in a fantastic evening of celebration.

“The Shropshire Chamber Business Awards are firmly-established among the largest events of their kind in the country, with a history stretching back more than 20 years. It is always a brilliant occasion, celebrating the extraordinary adaptability, innovation and success of our business community.

“We know that Shropshire businesses are facing significant challenges this year, so it’s more important than ever to celebrate and recognise the success stories of our incredible collection of finalists.”

Furniture upcycler Jay Blades MBE was also due to also be speaking at the awards this year, but has unfortunately had to pull out due to a change in his TV filming commitments.

There are still some tickets available for the event, known as the ‘Oscars’ of the local business community. See shropshirechamberbusinessawards.com for all the details.

This year’s business awards finalists come from all corners of the county, including Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Bridgnorth, Whitchurch, Shifnal, Bishop’s Castle, Ellesmere, Market Drayton, and Knockin.

Pictured: Debra Stephenson (photo credit Steve Ullathorne)