MORE THAN 70 students from Chelmsford received prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards at a recent ceremony.

In all, 78 11 to 25-year-olds from the city and Maldon received an award which recognises achievements and effort in the youth sector.

Twelve Chelmsford schools were represented by those pupils who were recognised. Winners receive a £200 grant which is put towards helping their school in a way they see fit.

Among those awarded was 11-year-old, Ellie Wakeling, who attends Moulsham High School. A keen ice hockey player, Ellie represents the South East in national competitions and has had trials for the England Girls team. She used her grant to buy netball equipment for her school.

William Broughton, 16, from St John Payne Catholic School, was nominated for the award by a fellow, unnamed pupil.

Diana Howes, the award co-ordinator for the school, said: “William was nominated by a year eight student who has found school more enjoyable because of the support he has provided and the time and care he has shown.”

The Mayor of Chelmsford, councillor Robert Villa, helped present awards at the Civic Theatre. He said “We have been to several and I never cease to be amazed by the amount of talented young people in Chelmsford.”