TWO students have picked up a major city-wide award in recognition of their voluntary contribution to sport in London.

CJ White, 17, of Caterham High School, Clayhall and Sophie Hammond, 17, of Beal High School, Clayhall, have both represented Redbridge in rowing at the London Youth Games in the past.

But being too old to compete this year they were repsonsible for coaching and managing the borough's rowing team.

Between them they organised a ten-week training programme which led the team to victory, securing four medals at the rowing finals in July.

They were presented with the Rick Grice Spirit of the Games Award at the Balfour Beatty London Youth Games Hall of Fame Annual Awards on October 9.

London Youth Games chairman Anthony Kendall said: "Congratulations to CJ and Sophie. The London Youth Games is all about giving young people an opportunity to fulfil their potential through sport.

"With people like CJ and Sophie making their contribution at the coal face of community sport, we can make a long-term difference to the lives of young Londoners."

Redbridge came fifth out of 33 boroughs who took part in this year's London Youth Games.

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