Inspiring achievements and hard work from more than 150 young people across Redbridge were celebrated last night at a heart-warming awards ceremony.

The prestigious Jack Petchey Achievement Awards honoured 159 pupils from 24 secondary schools at Redbridge Town Hall, High Road, Ilford.

Their achievements, which include helping others and achieving personal triumphs, saw them collect medallions to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for �200.

The 11-25-year-olds were nominated by their peers and leaders.

Fifteen adults who have shown an ability to motivate young people were also celebrated with Leader Awards. They received a medallion and a framed certificate.

The awards scheme provides funding of �45,000 to secondary schools in Redbridge each year.

To date funding of �2.5million has been received by youth organisations in the borough since funding started in 2002.

The 174 young people and adults were honoured in front of the Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Muhammed Javed, cabinet member for children’s services Cllr Alan Weinberg, Ilford South MP Mike Gapes and Redbridge police borough commander Sue Williams, among others,

Entertainment was provided by students from schools including Mayfield School, Pedley Road, Goodmayes, and a musical ensemble courtesy of Ilford County High School, Fremantle Road, Barkingside.

Singer/guitarist Lewis Hooper also performd. He is a member of the Jack Petchey Foundation Achievers Network and a former pupil of Wanstead High School, Redbridge Lane West, Wanstead.

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.

It has invested �75m to a wide range of 2,000 youth schemes across London and Essex.

Mr Petchey, 87, said: “I am passionate about our awards scheme which enables young people to be recognised, valued and rewarded for their achievements and positive contributions to society.

“I always believe: if you think you can, you can. And these youngsters prove my point – they just needed a little help.”

For more information visit www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk.