�Havering’s most hard working and inspirational young people were honoured at an awards ceremony.

A total of 159 students from 23 schools in the borough were presented with the prestigious Jack Petchey Achievement Awards earlier this month.

They had been nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements but above all for simply doing their best.

The award winners, aged from 11 to 25, received medallions, a framed certificate and a cheque for �200 which have already been presented.

Ten adults were also given leader awards for their ability to motivate young people.

They included Tony Collins, premises manager for St Edward’s CE School and 6th Form College who, with a very limited budget, has inspired projects that have had a direct imnpact on the learning environment of the school. Havering Mayor Cllr Lynden Thorpe, who attended the awards, said “I am always impressed by the vast array of talent and achievements of the young people of Havering. I hope Jack gets a knighthood”.

The awards scheme provides �42,000 each year to Havering secondary schools and �2.8million has been awarded to youth organisations in the borough since funding started in 2000.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was established in 1999 to recognise the positive contributions young people make to society and to support them in achieving their potential.