REMARKABLE sixth form students have been celebrated for months of work to improve the Thornbury community.

Around 20 pupils from the Castle School Sixth Form who took part in the school’s volunteering programme “Castle in the Community” were rewarded for their contribution at a special awards ceremony on Wednesday, May 3.

Also receiving awards were students who have helped younger pupils by acting as peer mentors and helping in science clubs.

“Castle in the Community” has just completed its sixth year in partnership with Thornbury Volunteer Centre, with preparations for next year already underway.

Members of the charities and organisations the group had worked for watched as they were presented with certificates by Thornbury mayor Cllr Helen Harrison for their outstanding contribution to their town.

Sarah Ockenden, deputy head of the Sixth Form, said that the school were immensely proud of the students’ achievements and that they had all made a difference to the lives of other people.

Kevin Simpson of Thornbury Lions, the group that sponsored the ceremony, also spoke to the audience with a few words about the work and ethos needed in the community.

Students have been placed in many local organisations and their roles have included befriending, gardening, activities co-ordinators, charity shop work and support assistants.

Kim Webb, development co-ordinator for Thornbury Volunteer Centre told the Gazette that “the benefits to students and organisations are immense.”

She said: “The students gain valuable work experience and life skills and the organisations increase capacity and gain additional volunteer help.”

To find out more about Castle in the Community, or to get involved, contact Kim Webb at Thornbury Volunteer Centre on 01454 413392 or by emailing mail@volunteer-thornbury.co.uk.