Magna Carta pupils and rower among youth award winners

One winner James Coxhead, stole the commitment to sport award after demonstrating amazing sporting talent and dedication to Weybridge Rowing Club.

In the last five years James, 17, has progressed from a total beginner to being the club's best junior sculler.

The young sporting champ has also rowed 26 miles in a charity "marathon" from Weybridge to Teddington with a blind team mate in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind.
The other winners were two pupils from Magna Carta school in Egham.

Nicola Bean, 16, was recognised for her commitment to the arts and Albert Taylor, 16, for his enthusiasm for academics and learning.

The awards were organised by Runnymede's youth council, a team of 12-18 year-olds that work for the council to provide various services for young people in the borough.

Leader of Runnymede Borough Council, Councillor John Furey, Deputy Mayor Councillor Margaret Roberts and Ward and County Councillor Yvonna Lay were all in attendance on Saturday October 17 to recognise the phenomenal talent young Runnymede had to offer.

Cllr Furey said: "I am always pleased to see young people in the borough getting involved in their community and helping to make a difference to the lives of other young people.

"This brand new awards scheme is a prime example of their commitment to the Youth Council.

"It's fantastic to see such achievements being recognized by young people."