Gifted youngsters were delighted to be recognised for their talents at a special awards ceremony.

The Havering Talented 30 evening, which took place at the Myplace Youth Centre, Dagnam Park Drive, Harold Hill, welcomed those who were shortlisted by an independent judging panel to receive their awards.

The diverse range of talent included awards for young people involved in archery, literature, cheerleading, badminton, diving, street dance, ice hockey and distance running.

Musicians were also rewarded for their efforts, with many playing instruments from the violin and piano and bassoon and percussion.

In the sporting field, awards were presented to a number of members from the Havering Hurricanes team who competed in the London Youth Games at Crystal Palace this month, two footballers and several athletes who achieved international recognition in their age categories.

Winners that are in the field of music included several members of the Havering Music School and talented performers who have progressed to study with London’s leading music schools, the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music or Junior Guildhall.

During the evening, the audience was treated to performances by musicians Benjamin Belay, Thomas Warner, Alexandra Hopkins, Charles Campbell-Peek and a reading by young writer Rose O’Brien.

Deputy mayor of Havering Councillor Michael Deon Burton and deputy mayoress Councillor Christine Vickery presented the winners with Havering Talented 30 certificates and awards for £200 to help them further develop their skills.

The winners were selected from more than 90 applications.

The Talented 30 awards is sponsored by Havering Council, which established the scheme in 2008 as part of the run up to both the London Olympics and Para Olympics.

The annual celebratory ceremony recognises the gifts of youngsters in a variety of cultural activities, which include art, dance, music and sports.

Speaking about the ceremony, cabinet member for public protection and safety, Councillor Viddy Persaud said: “This group of young people have a vast array of talent between them, and I’m thrilled that we can honour them and give support to reach their full potential.”