TALENTED students at Sidmouth College recently celebrated success at the institution’s first Year Nine awards evening.

Eighty-seven youngsters in the year group received in total more than 100 cups, shields, certificates and trophies, writes Amber Marshall.

The awards, in the categories of Achievement, Progress and Special Merit, were presented by various teachers and musical performances from students Matilda Reynolds, Lauren French and Jerome Blackburn were enjoyed in intervals.

Along with other important prizes, The David Keast Cup for outstanding achievement was awarded to student of the year, Poppy Snowling.

This cup was presented in the memory of John and Nicholas Keast’s father, David, a former governor who chaired the board, and well respected and cherished member of the school’s community.

After presenting the award in memory of his father, John said: “Nicholas and I both thought it was a wonderful evening and were very pleased to be part of the inaugural event-it certainly would have had Dad’s smile of approval.”

Principal Jeremy Roberts added: “David was a passionate promoter of education and a great friend to the college community. His sons have continued the long family connection with the college and his grandchildren are numbered on our roll. This award, in David’s memory, is a lasting tribute to all that he gave to the college.”

Martin Long, Head of Year Nine, said: “I have been hugely impressed with the students’ strong work ethic and the way in which they have embraced the opportunities available to them at the college. I congratulate them all on their achievements and urge them to re-dedicate themselves to the task ahead of achieving the very best of results at GCSE in 2014.”

More than 200 people attended the event.