OUTSTANDING young achievers received awards from X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent stars at the Sofitel Hotel, Heathrow.

The Kids in Care Awards celebrate the achievements of children and young people in education and sport and for their contributions to the community.

Foster carers, teachers, social workers, residential workers and parents nominated the youngsters, and more than 300 guests attended the event.

The X Factor’s Little Mix and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Ryan O’Shaughnessy presented the awards.

Ryan said: “Their stories are a real inspiration and it’s been great to see the kids so involved in running the awards. They should be proud of what a great night it has been.”

The event was organised by a panel of young people in care, who are ex-KICA award winners.

KICA panel member Paul, 16, said: “It’s been a lot of hard work planning the event, but very rewarding.”

Linda Sanders, Director of Social Care, Health and Housing, said: “These children have worked extremely hard to overcome the challenges they have faced in their lives. The Kids in Care Awards is our chance to celebrate their achievements.”