Dedicated, hardworking and community minded young people from across the borough were honoured at an awards ceremony last night.

One hundred and forty one young people from 20 schools in Redbridge received prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards at the annual ceremony held in Ilford Town Hall on Ilford High Road.

The event honoured Achievement award winners aged 11-25 who were nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements but mostly for doing their best.

Ten adults also received Leader Awards for demonstrating, in an outstanding way, an ability to motivate young people.

£2.6 million has been awarded by the Jack Petchey Foundation to youth organisations in Redbridge since funding started in 2000.

Redbridge Police Borough Cdr Chief Supt Sue Williams, who helped present the awards, said: “I am always pleased to attend this event which recognises young people’s achievements. They are inspired and they inspire me. How fantastic these young people are.”

Chris Carter, Executive Editor at the Ilford Recorder added: “I would like to congratulate all the winners and also thank the Jack Petchey Foundation for this fantastic scheme which seeks to shine a light on our brilliant young people. The Recorder supports the scheme unconditionally and we are always happy to highlight positive stories about the young people of Redbridge.”

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 £85 million to a wide range of 2,000 youth initiatives across London and Essex.

Founder, Jack Petchey CBE, 88, 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.”

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