Scores of pupils amassed in Redbridge Town Hall with their parents and teachers could have been forgiven for launching into a Barack Obama style “YES WE CAN” chant at last night’s Jack Petchey awards.

More than 160 Redbridge students received their Petchey honours from VIPs, including Redbridge Mayor Cllr Chris Cummins, and were reminded of entrepreneur Jack’s mantra “If you think you can, you (really) can.”

Twenty four schools were represented at the ceremony during which Redbridge Council cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Alan Weinberg, heralded the achievements of the borough’s young people.

“It is for us to tell the world that young people are exceptional, want to play part in society and do play a part in society,” said Cllr Weinberg.

The audience was also entertained in between presentations by young talent from the borough.

Full report of last night’s ceremony to come