INSPIRATIONAL youngsters were celebrated at the annual Dudley Youth Awards.

An audience of young people, parents, carers and VIP guests gathered at Stourbridge Town Hall to hear the winners of the Dudley Youth Council run awards announced.

Quarry Bank teenager Sam Singer, who suffers from Cushing’s syndrome, won this year’s school and college award for motivating other students to attend school after the 14-year-old underwent brain surgery.

Sam’s mother, Jan Batham said: “Sam loves school and could not wait to get back immediately after having brain surgery.

“Even though it is very difficult for him, he still tries his hardest and is still committed to his school work. I’m so proud of him.”

Jacob Robinson, aged 18, was awarded the Sport award after being head-hunted to play wheelchair basketball for a London-based team, while the award for inspiring others was given to 19-year-old Luke Wooldridge for his positive outlook at his school and youth club in the face of undergoing chemotherapy.

Rhys Lambert, aged 18, who volunteers at an animal centre, received an award for overcoming personal adversity by having a consistent smile and keeping up his sense of humour despite troubles.

The Arts and Entertainment award was given to Dudley Performing Arts student Sophie Stone, 17, who performed in front of 5,000 people at the National School Games and has danced in a tour of American schools.

Ellowes Hall Army Cadet Force scooped the Community Group award for its work in the local community alongside the tenants and residents association and police.

The only prize that honours adults at the ceremony is the Mary Growcott Award which this year went to George Casper, who works for the student union at Halesowen College and has helped many generations of young people in representing their views to senior staff.

Dudley councillor Tim Crumpton, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “All of these young people are volunteers and are a fantastic example to everyone of how to be good citizens.

“All of us were extremely moved by the stories we heard of bravery and overcoming adversity, everyone involved has given and will continue to give everything to enhance our communities. The people of Dudley should be proud of everyone involved."

During the night £250 was raised for the British Red Cross, Dudley Youth Council’s chosen good cause of the year.