Life isn't an audition, says YEP's Dad of the year Wayne

Wayne Nicholson, from Ossett, who won the YEP Father's Day competition.

DAD-OF-THE-YEAR Wayne Nicholson enjoyed a day of VIP treats at Leeds' Victoria Quarter after winning a YEP competition.

And who better to accompany him than his son Gareth who nominated him for the Father’s Day contest.

Gareth, 23, said he had learnt a lot from his dad, 49, who was involved in a serious road accident in 2003 when their car was hit by a truck. He nominated him to thank him for being an inspiration and for all that he had done.

Wayne said: “I was cut out of the wreckage and airlifted to hospital, operated on that night for my worst injuries. Four months later I returned to work with the aid of a walking stick. My mantra then became ‘life isn’t an audition’.

“You learn a lot from a situation like that. Life is too short, enjoy it and make the best of what you have.”

The prize included treats worth around £1,500 from Victoria Quarter retailers such as shoes from Cheaney.

Wayne added: “It was such a wonderful surprise and it has set the bar very high for the next few years.”