A TOTAL of 150 young people from schools across Hillingdon received Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards at the Beck Theatre, Hayes, on Thursday.

The winners, aged 11-25, received medallions to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for £250 each, already presented.

They were nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements big and small but always for doing their best.

In addition, 10 adults received leader awards for their ability to motivate young people.

Youth organisations and schools in Hillingdon have received funding of £742, 266 from the Jack Petchey Foundation since funding started in 2005.

The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Carol Melvin, said: “It was fantastic to see the winners being recognised for so many different achievements.”

READ MORE: Hillingdon family's fight for vital treatment for daughter

READ MORE: MasterChef contestant dies in London Marathon

Winners included Najma Yousuf, 18, who attends Harlington School. She  recently represented the school in a mock UN conference. Her £250 award will go on gardening equipment and plants for the school.

Lauren McKeon, 16, of Northwood School, organised a school harvest basket appeal for Hillingdon Food Bank and collected more than 500 food items. Her £250 award will be split between a theatre trip for pupils to see a Shakespeare play and gifts for a children’s hospital.

Andrew Botcher, 19, joined Global Academy after his previous college closed its radio production course. He feels radio is the reason to get up in the morning and it is where he wants to work and develop his career. He has volunteered to run the school radio station and his £250 award will go on equipment for the studio.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was set up in 1999 to recognise the positive contributions young people make to society. Since then, it has provided support to 2,000 initiatives across London and Essex and has invested more than £118m.

Sir Jack Petchey CBE, aged 92, 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.”