Actor James Harkishin was presented the first Sophiya Haque Services to British Television Award at the Asian Media Awards
James, more commonly known as Jimmi, has played the part of Dev Alahan in Coronation Street since 1999, making him the longest-running actor in an Asian role on British television.
Jimmi was handed the Sophiya Haque Award for Services to British Television, a category named in tribute to the late Coronation Street actress, who died of cancer earlier this year, aged 41.
The talented actress starred in the popular soap as barmaid Poppy Morales. She also featured in a number of West End shows included Bombay Dreams, The Far Pavilions and Wah! Wah! Girls.
The award was presented to Jimmi by Preeya Kalidas.
Before then Gary Barack read out a tribute to Sophiya Haque and a message from the family.
Jimmi said: “These awards are a fantastic celebration of being Asian and long may this continue. It’s a great honour to receive this award and I feel very privileged to be able to act and do what I love on a day-to-day basis.”
“I feel really privileged and honoured to have been awarded the Sophiya Haque Award for Services to British Television. When you win an award like this it means you really must be getting on a bit!”
A statement from the Asian Media Awards read, “These awards aim to inspire a whole new generation by celebrating the talent and drive of some of most inspiring individuals.
“They also look to reward those who have made a valued contribution to British television.
“We are delighted to be honouring an individual who has been has been a part of British culture for many years.”
