Young people of Wandsworth have been celebrated at the Wandsworth Young Person of the Year Awards ceremony.

Awards were given to inspirational young people, recognising their contributions to the community.

The winner of Wandsworth Young Person of the Year Award 2018 was Harini Thiruchelvam, awarded for her dedicated volunteer work.

Harini, 16, who attends Graveney School, volunteers for three hours each week at an animal re-homing centre. She helps out at a horse riding school, works as a veterinary assistant and for the past five years has volunteered at a library. As well as the award, she has won £500.

The Mayor of Wandsworth Councillor Leslie McDonnell said: “Harini’s concern for the wellbeing and her consistent support for her school community are heart-warming. Her personal dedication, self-discipline and ability to make the very best use of her time are a lesson to all of us, young and old alike. Harini is the deserving recipient of the Wandsworth Young Person of the Year Award for 2018.”

Many other young people received awards at the ceremony.

Rhea Kara, 12, received an award after raising £50,000 for the charity Reverse Rett by selling her paintings.

Sofia Perera was awarded for her contributions to the Wandsworth Youth Council, working to improve Mental Health provision for young people.

Sinead Brown who attends Ark Putney Academy is the only school age pupil to be admitted to the Office for Students panel, which represents students’ interests in higher education.

Finley Wright won an award after he helped establish the Combined Cadet Force at Ernest Bevin School, Tooting and went on a trip to Zambia to help teach Rugby to local young people.

Two groups were recognised at the ceremony, the Band Project at Ark Putney and The Gap Youth Club, which provides a safe social space for LGBTQ youngsters.

The ceremony was held at Civic Suite, Wandsworth High Street on Tuesday, April 24.

The event was organised by the Young Person of the Year Trustees in conjunction with Wandsworth Youth Service and was funded by the Rotary Club and Wandsworth Community Safety Trust.

Nominations for next year's award will open in the autumn 2018.