A former youth MP has been named one of the best black students in the UK.

Richard Serunjogi, from Thornton Heath, who studies Social Policy at the London School of Economics (LSE), came second at the Rare Rising Stars awards 2013, that finds the top 10 black students in the UK.

Last October, the 21-year-old became the first ever first year student to be elected to the LSE Court of Governors, gaining over 20 percent of all votes cast.

His campaign promised to set up a fund to support students to complete work experience and internships outside of the finance sector. He also called for all campus staff to paid the living wage and for better food for students in halls and across the campus.

Speaking about the award he said: "Every one of those students is a star and it is a privilege to be part of it. I was told I was in the top ten, but didn't know what position I would finish in.

"But it is not me alone, I have been fortunate to meet so many amazing people and that people have given me a chance."

Outside of his studies Mr Serunjogi has been heavily involved in his community.

A former Youth MP for Croydon, he along with a team of sixth form students from across Croydon and Sutton, published the celebrity endorse IncrEdible Cook Book which recommended healthy meals for parents and children.

He said: "Some people are surprised when they hear I am from Croydon, but there are lots of amazing people who have been brought up in Croydon and we need to recognise their achievements and let people celebrate it."