During a special ceremony the educational achievements of young people in care has been celebrated in Bradford

All the young people invited to this event had proven that they could still achieve educational awards despite the difficulties that they have in their lives

The achievements varied from passing GCSE exams to having a good attendance record. Each award was greeted with great applause from the audience, who were gathered at the City Hall in Bradford.

Head of service for the education of children and young people in public care, Ewen Godfrey said: "These are young people who may have experienced neglect or abuse and have been separated from their families, friends and communities.

"As a result they may have missed time at school or had to change school several times, adding to the difficulties they face in their personal lives.

"Each has been nominated by a carer, social worker, teacher or family member for different reasons, ranging from improved attendance and behavior at school to outstanding academic achievement."

Over 100 young people, aged between three and twenty, attended the event along with elected members of Bradford Council, social workers and education staff. Also attending were representatives from Morrisons, McDonald's, and Pace Micro Technology, which were sponsors of the event.

"The ceremony is part of our overall drive to raise achievement and reward the individual success of children in care" said Councillor Kris Hopkins, executive member for health and housing.

"It is essential that we raise the profile of this group of young people who we believe do extremely well, often in very difficult circumstances."

The achievements of each young person were read out before the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councilor Ghazanfer Khaliq, presented them with a certificate of achievement and gift vouchers.