Pride of Redbridge honoured with Jack Petchey Awards

Hundreds of proud youngsters and their equally proud parents and teachers cheered and clapped at a raucous Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards on Thursday, November 30,

Redbridge Town Hall was packed to the rafters to hail the achievements of young people across the borough.

At the annual event, in High Road, Ilford, parents jostled to take photos of their sons and daughters receiving their medals, whilst compère Philip Allinson highlighted their hard work and success.

The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Linda Huggett opened the ceremony by reflecting on the hard work by the children and urging them: “Hold on to your dreams and goals – you will achieve.”

She added: “Always do your best and you will be the best.”

More than 150 pupils from 24 secondary schools across the borough and Redbridge College each received a medallion and a cheque for £250, to be invested in their school or club.

Leadership awards were also given to 11 teachers who have demonstrated, in an outstanding way, an ability to encourage and motivate young people.

Entertainment was provided by talented singers from The Palmer Catholic School and Mayfield School.

The awards were presented by Cllr Elaine Norman, the cabinet member for children and young people, the council’s corporate director of people Adrian Loades, and Lindsay Jones, editor of the Ilford Recorder.

Afterwards Cllr Huggett said: “It was an honour to recognise the achievements of our young people. As the Mayor of Redbridge I am very proud of all their accomplishments, and know they will continue to make the borough proud. My thanks also go to the Jack Petchey Foundation for allowing schools and youth clubs to reward, support and inspire young people.”

Mr Loades said: “Too often the achievements of young people are dismissed, so I must thank the Jack Petchey Foundation for empowering and celebrating the many youth who persevere, work hard, and achieve!”

And Cllr Norman added: “It was a real privilege celebrating the varied achievements of our young people. They are an asset to our borough, with successful futures ensured. Thank you to the Jack Petchey Foundation for continuously rewarding and celebrating the accomplishments of our youth!”