Two outstanding school pupils from London’s East End were among this year’s winners of the annual Jack Petchey ‘achievement’ awards after being nominated by their classmates.

Ellie Bergman, 13, was selected for her enthusiasm helping to run the Fairtrade lunchtime club at Shadwell’s Bishop Challoner RC Collegiate for Girls.

Her �200 grant is being used for resources to promote Fairtrade at parent evenings and other school events.

Rabbiul Abedin, 13, earned �200 for Bethnal Green’s Oaklands Secondary, after getting a distinction in the Petchey public speaking challenge and competing in the Poetry Slam event.

His award is being been spent on a microphone and equipment for the school’s Music department to help him and other pupils follow their creative paths.

This year’s awards went to 139 youngsters aged 11 to 25 from all over east London who gathered at Bethnal Green’s York Hall last Thursday.

Winners received medallions, framed certificates and cash for their schools or clubs, all nominated by their peers and teachers. Six adults were also celebrated with ‘Leader’ awards and medallions who have motivated young people.

Youth organisations in the East End alone have received �4.5 million from the Petchey Foundation since 2001. Schools across Tower Hamlets get �33,400 each year.