A Forest Gate teenager was among almost 200 air cadets presented with Jack Petchey achievement awards for their accomplishments.

Luiza Stewart, 17, was rewarded during the ceremony in Kensington’s Great Hall which honoured 11 to 25-year-olds involved in the London and Middlesex Wings of the Air Training Corps.

The St Angela’s and St Bonaventure’s sixth form student received a medallion along with a framed certificate and a cheque for £200.

Luiza, of Windsor Road, has been part of the cadets for four years. She was nominated for her involvement in the unit’s band which has encouraged others to take part and help the group come first in the London Wing competition. #

“I felt really good about myself and it made me feel like I can help others and show that I have achieved something myself, too,” she said.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was founded in 1999 by Jack Petchey CBE to inspire young people to achieve their potential. It supports a range of youth programmes for those aged 11 to 25 years old.