SOUTHEND YMCA held its annual youth awards to celebrate the achievements of the young people the organisation has worked with over the last year.

The event was attended by 150 people and was held at at Leigh Community Centre, in Elm Road, Leigh.

Southend YMCA provides youth-led services for young people in Southend and across Essex.

Youngsters were praised for their hard work and dedication with awards handed out for a variety of achievements, including the compassion and kindness awards, learning and achievement award and community action award among many more.

The Youth Awards is Southend YMCA’s annual event to recognise the achievements of some of the most inspirational young people that have engaged in YMCA projects and services over the past year.

Philip Miller MBE, chief executive of Stockvale Group, donated £1,000 and sponsored the awards.

There was also music from X Factor star Matt Linnen.

Syrie Cox, Southend YMCA chief executive, said: “The youth awards provides an exciting opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of inspirational children and young people, with our valued partners and sponsors.

“Together we aim to help young people build their future and assume their role as active citizens in our town.”

If you are a local business that would be interested in supporting the event next year email sachaedwards@southendymca.org.uk