Havering’s brilliant young people have been rightly recognised at last night’s fantastic Jack Petchey Awards.

Each year the awards celebrate the achievements of the borough’s youngsters.

Yesterday hundreds of pupils, teachers and VIPs flocked to Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch for the glamourous event.

From talented sports people, to creative musicians and charity fundraisers, each winner received a special medallion and £250 for their school from the Jack Petchey Foundation.

The awards were handed out by former Havering Mayor Councillor Philippa Crowder, Havering Council’s assistant director of education Trevor Cook and the Romford Recorder.

The audience was treated to three fantastic musical performances, two from local girl Alessandra Curle who reached the final of the BBC’s Pitch Perfect show.

Harris Academy Rainham pupil Bradley Andrews, who was one of the award winners, perfomed one of his own compositions on piano – Wondrous Skies.

Another Harris Academy pupil Katie Perry received her award for being a key member of her school’s netball team.

The 12-year-old also finds time to take part in the Latin club, and she represented Havering in the London Youth Games.

She will donate her money to the netball club.

Jack Whitehead, from St Edward’s Church of England & Sixth Form College, was given his award for his charity work.

Just before Christmas the 15-year-old found out that his aunt had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

He decided he would raise money for Cancer Research UK, by shaving off his hair, and with the help of his form tutors and family, raised more than £1,200.

He said: “I’m really proud of what I have been able to achieve, while raising awareness and money for such a good cause.”

At Drapers’ Academy 14-year-old Amy Ford was also recognised for cutting off her hair for charity.

Amy decided that she wanted to donate her hair to the Little Princess Trust, which provides real hair wigs to boys and girls who have lost their own hair through illness.

Deputy Mayor of Havering Councillor Dilip Patel, who posed for pictures with the winners, said: “It was very inspirational for the young people.

“The Jack Petchey Foundation is doing a wonderful job to help them achieve their dreams and upper limits.

“I was really impressed with how this evening event was organised and the smiles on the faces of young people.”