Wolverhampton's famous sons and daughters honoured

At first glance none of these people really have a great deal in common – a sportsman, a businessman, a soul singer, a teacher and a charity founder.

But together they are five of the greatest living sons and daughters of Wolverhampton.

Multiple MOBO award winner Beverley Knight, George Medal recipient Lisa Potts, the former Wolves owner Sir Jack Hayward, the city's university deputy vice chancellor Sir Geoff Hampton and champion cyclist Hugh Porter were last night made the first names on a roll of honour that will continue to grow as Wolverhampton pays further tribute to those who inspire the city's residents to be proud of where they are from.

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It was created to commemorate Wolverhampton's 10th anniversary as a city. But it also served as a timely opportunity to celebrate its achievements, particularly on the back of recent economic good news such as the decision by Jaguar Land Rover to build an engine plant at the i54 business park and a decision by developers to build three superstores – a Tesco, a Sainsbury's and another store earmarked as a Morrisons, creating more than 1,300 jobs.

At an awards dinner at Molineux last night, around 200 guests including many of the city's business and civic leaders gathered to hear how the five had worked to put Wolverhampton on the map.

A total of 30 different great Wulfrunians were nominated by readers of the Express & Star in the categories of education, outstanding contribution to the city, sport, arts media and entertainment and business.