EIGHT youngsters who overcame personal challenges to achieve educational success have been recognised for their efforts with a special award.

Redbridge College students Alan Kurowski, Marina Nyamololo, Saeed Miah, Jack McAllister, Abayomi Seymour, Serena Grant, Sanchez Hardy and Nicky Hornsby received their Jack Petchey Awards in front of an audience of family and friends.

Each winner received a certificate, medallion and a cheque for £200 which they can spend on new equipment or anything else that will benefit their experience at the college.

Sanchez Hardy - who is studying on the National Certificate in Sport - was nominated for the outstanding perseverance he has shown over the past term.

He said: "When I told my dad I had won a Jack Petchey award, he had the biggest smile on his face – it's the first time I've ever won an individual prize.

"I'm going to put the money towards a trip for me and some of my classmates to play football in an American college tournament.

"I'm so excited about going, I can't wait.

"I'm especially looking forward to the experience of playing abroad and against different teams.

"Winning a Jack Petchey award means I have achieved something most people havent. So I'm very happy."

Alan Kurowski - who is studying on the college's Skills for Working Life course - was nominated for the award by his IT tutor, who praised his talents on a computer and his willingness to help others in his class.

For more information about Redbridge College visit: redbridge-college.ac.uk