Musgrave gold-medal recipients Professor Mercedes Richards (left) and Carey Robinson shake hands shortly after receiving their medals at the Institute of Jamaica annual award ceremony on East Street, Kingston, yesterday. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

There were radiant smiles yesterday as nine of the 10 awardees for 2008 ascended the stage in front of the office of the Institute of Jamaica, downtown Kingston, yesterday to collect their Musgrave medals.

The red and white balloons and ribbons, the glowing mid-afternoon sun and the rich cultural performances created the perfect background for the celebratory event.

Veteran broadcaster, producer and former Gleaner employee, Carey Robinson, was one of the two gold-medal recipients.

His is the distinct voice that narrates the stories from every nook and cranny on the television series Hill and Gully Ride.

Robinson was recognised for his eminence in the field of community development and heritage.

Astronomer Professor Mercedes Richards was the other gold-medal recipients. She was recognised for her distinction in the field of astronomy.

The silver awardees were: Howard Moo Young - photography; Monica Campbell-McFarlane - dance; Peter Espeut - environment.

Doreth McFarlane, Andrea Ricketts, Vincent Douglas and Maureen Campbell were awarded bronze medals.

Jaevion Nelson, the recipient of the Musgrave Youth Medal, was absent.