BECKTON teenagers have been rewarded for outstanding ability.

The group pictured were among 98 young people from to receive Jack Petchey Achievement Awards (13/12).

They came from 20 clubs from London who have been nominated by their peers, winning awards for a variety of achievements but mostly for doing their best.

Winners received a medallion to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for �200 which has already been presented. Prize money has mostly been spent on extra resources and equipment. Six adults also received Leader awards, achieved for demonstrating in an outstanding way, an ability to encourage and motivate young people. They received a gilt medallion and a framed certificate.

Winners included this group from the Winsor Park Youth Club which offers art, crafts and a range of sports to local young people as well as a safe place to hang out. They have been on the JPF Awards scheme since 2007 and have so far received �12,400.

There was Jamie McFarlane, aged 12, who won her award for her enthusiasm for poetry and always telling stories about her pet dog.

The grant award was spent on health and beauty equipment for the girls including lots of glittery nail polishes.

Trudy Kilcullen, Chief Operations Officer for the Jack Petchey Foundation, who is in the pictures, said “These young people are a credit to their families and community. It is right that we should honour them for their achievements as they deserve to feel proud. Young people are often subject to criticism and bad press so it is good to see that those who have made a contribution to our society are properly recognised”