A Merton cadet leader and a young police cadet have won prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards.

PC Duffy, Merton cadet leader, won the award for being an outstanding cadet leader while 15-year-old Jessica Hoyes was honoured for her achievement.

They came together to receive the awards at the Kensington Great Hall on February 18 and were presented with medallions and framed certificate with Jessica receiving a cheque for £250.

PC Duffy of Cannon Hill ward was awarded a Jack Petchey Foundation award for her enduring commitment to the Voluntary Police Cadets, while Jessica was awarded for being a ‘vibrant’ and ‘energetic’ cadet, having won the 2017 Best New Recruit Award.

PC Duffy has sculpted young lives for well over a decade helping the youth learning much needed life skills while doing her work in her own time and at weekends.

Jessica has actively engaged in all aid and volunteering opportunities leading younger Cadets and recruiting friends and little brother to the unit.

She has even been selected to join the Police Commissioner for Voice of Youth Day.

Assistant Commissioner Mr Martin Hewitt said: “It’s fantastic to be part of this ceremony to celebrate the young people of our Volunteer Police Cadets.

“Hearing about their effort, their determination and their selflessness restores faith in youth.

“Seeing their pride in their achievement is a great boost.”