More than 30 youngsters from schools and youth clubs across Uttlesford have been recognised for their achievements with a prestigious award.
The winners, aged 11 to 25, were attended the Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards, at E.T. Foakes Memorial Hall, on September 26.
The event is part of the foundation’s peer recognition scheme, with nominations made by young people as well as teachers, parents and supporting adults.
As well as being recognised for their achievements, youngsters also received a framed certificate and a £250 cheque to spend on benefitting their school or club.
Councillor Geoffrey Sell, chairman of Uttlesford District Council and who presented the awards, said: “I found the evening to be inspiring and once again it confirms my view that in Uttlesford we are fortunate to have such talented and gifted young people.
“It is a pleasure to be associated with the excellent work of the Jack Petchey Foundation.”
Shirley Faith Nannono Senabulya, 18, attends Felsted School and won an award for her thought-provoking play called Bag of Bones.
Shirley has also been named as a shortlisted writer in a National Theatre competition, and the play has been selected as one of only ten in the country to be performed as a rehearsed reading at the theatre this July.
She decided to spend her prize money on five new beanbags for the Year 13 girls’ boarding house.
Also scooping an award on the night was 14-year-old Will Smith, who attends Dunmow Atlantis Swimming Club.
He was praised for his performance at this year’s swim camp in Tuscany, Italy, which saw him complete 12,000 metres of swimming each day over six days.
He decided to spend the cheque on short training fins for the club.
Other winners included Georgina King, 16, from Helena Romanes School for her contributions to the drama department, and Josh Shane, 12, from Sampfords Youth Club, who has become more confident in trying new activities.
Sir Jack Petchey CBE, 92, set up the foundation in 1999. He 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.”
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