Ilford whizz kid to mingle with the stars at House of Commons award gala

An Ilford whizz kid will mingle with the stars at a House of Commons gala on Wednesday after being nominated for an achievement award.

Adedapo Adelekan, of Perth Road, Ilford, is in the running for the London Schools and the Black Child Academic Achievement Awards.

Valentines High School student Adedapo got 10 A*s and four As in his GCSEs, some of which he took early.

The awards, hosted by Hackney MP Diane Abbott, aim to highlight high-achieving black students.

Ms Abbott said: “The evening is about celebrating high achieving black students in London, who are so often overlooked, giving them the recognition they deserve and the tools to go forward to successful careers.”

Stars including Sir Trevor McDonald, rapper Wretch 32 and Olympic champion Christine Ohuruogu are expected to attend the evening.