A total of 75 young people from schools across Merton came together to receive the prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards presented at the Polka Theatre.

The event, which honoured achievement award winners aged 11-25, was held on Tuesday 17th October, with the young people each receiving medallions and a cheque for £250.

Youth organisations and schools in Merton have received funding of £333,286 from the Jack Petchey Foundation since funding started in 2007.

The Mayor of Merton, Cllr Marsie Skette said: “It was an honour to recognise the achievements of our young people. As the Mayor of Merton I am very proud of all their accomplishments and know they will continue to make the borough proud.

“My thanks also go to the Jack Petchey Foundation for allowing schools and youth clubs to reward, support and inspire young people.”

Sir Jack Petchey CBE 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.”

Sir Jack founded the Jack Petchey Foundation in 1999 to recognise the positive contributions young people make to society and to support them in achieving their overall potential.

Some of the winners of the award included Ushna Khawaja, 18 who attends South Thames College- Merton Campus, Jemima Fosua and Andrea Morrissey, 15, from Raynes Park High School, Jessica Roberts, 17, from Ursuline High School, Tomas Morais, 14, from Wimbledon College and Andrew Holbrook, 17, a member of Carers Support Merton.