Inspirational students, including a promising rugby star turned film maker and a mother-of-five who finished a pharmacy course in record time, were recognised at Bradford College’s Rising Stars Awards Evening 2013 last night.

More than 150 guests, including Bradford Council leader David Green, Council chief executive Tony Reeves, College principal Michele Sutton and Mohammed Aslam, the managing director of Aagrah, were at the event to see the Further Education students receive their awards.

The young achievers, aged 16 to 18, and adult achievers, aged 19 plus, were nominated by their tutors.

Media production student Conor Butler, 17, of Buttershaw, scooped a young achievers award after being nominated by film studies lecturer David Crighton for his commitment to his studies.

A former Bradford Bulls Academy student, Conor was diagnosed with a serious health condition which cut short his promising rugby career, but he then channelled his energies into film making.

He has filmed Plan B at O2 in London as part of a live DVD set to be released later in the year and has done filming for Girls Aloud.

Mother-of-five Paula Mason, 46, scooped an adult achievers award after she completed an 18-month pharmacy course within six months, despite battling illness, and was nominated by her tutor Gail Hall.

Haleema Israr scooped the overall award for adult achiever and Conor received the overall award for young achiever. Both were presented with a Kindle Fire.

Single mother Haleema, who is studying for a degree in social work, successfully juggled voluntary and college work and impressed her tutor with her commitment.

Bilaal Yaqub, was the special recognition winner and was presented with a Kindle Fire and a cheque for £250.

Nominated by tutor Haj Cheema, Bilaal was described as a genuine team-player who often goes out of his way to help others.

Mrs Sutton said at the presentation: “The Rising Stars Awards Evening recognises the academic and personal achievements of you – our award winners. You have made a positive contribution to the college, the city and beyond.

“You are a special group of people who have displayed all the qualities needed to succeed in life – drive, commitment, professionalism and the ability to meet and conquer challenges head- on. I wish you many congratulations on your success. I know that you have all worked hard. Well done. We are proud of each and every one of you.”