SOME of Bradford College's most inspiring students, many of whom had overcome major hurdles to get into higher education, were celebrated at an awards ceremony last night.

The college's Rising Stars Awards were held in the recently refurbished Dye House Gallery, and involved 24 awards being handed out to pupils from a variety of different backgrounds and subjects.

And a new award was introduced this year, named after the college's building services manager who died in December.

Awards are presented to the students, aged between 16 and 18, and also the many adult students aged over 19 that attend the college, often for a second chance at education.

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Bradford College principal, Kathryn Oldale and director of student services, Abi Clay, assistant principal for skills and development, Stephanie Tinsley and assistant principal Michael Walsh and chief executive Andy Welsh were the Masters of Ceremonies.

Paul Jagger, 19, said he was "humbled and delighted" to scoop the Overall Adult Achiever Award. Nominated by tutor Fiona Arundel, he was described by his tutors as "a lovely, gentle, kind person, who is academically bright and a pleasure to teach."

As the oldest sibling from a large family, Paul often helped his mum take care of the younger children while juggling his studies. He recently achieved an A* for his first externally marked essay and wants to pursue a career as a social worker.

Beth Marsden, 18, scooped the Overall Young Achiever Award. Her lecturers said she had excelled as a student on her sports course and has been noted for her hard work and maturity. Beth has also taken up boxing and has delivered a boxing coaching session to her fellow students. She hopes to become a lifeguard when she completes her studies.

The Ian Brown Award was an addition to the awards this year, commemorating the former building services manager who died in December. The award went to music student Shaun Bartle, 23, for his enthusiasm and commitment to his studies and contributions to the college by playing in the soul band which performs at many College functions. Despite having no previous qualifications, he is now on track to go to university.

Chloe Clegg was the Special Recognition winner, after being nominated for the "confidence and culinary skills" she has shown since starting her professional cookery course. The 19-year-old originally considered a career in Engineering but quickly realised that cooking professionally was where her true passion lay.

Paying tribute to the award winners during the presentation ceremony, Mr Welsh said: “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. Well done.”