STUDENTS, coaches, staff, friends and family came together to celebrate a North-East college's sporting success over the past year.

The annual sports awards evening, at Queen Elizabeth (QE) Sixth Form College, in Darlington, was enjoyed by all who attended and the turnout was very high.

Organisers have thanked family members who came to support the students.

The awards were presented by former QE student Ben Turnbull who is now studying journalism at the University of Sunderland.

Ben is a volunteer in QE's Sports Department and is an inspiration to students.

Paul Carroll, the college's sport development co-ordinator, said: "The awards celebrated not only the achievements of individuals, teams and the selfless contribution made to sport by so many who volunteer, but also the success of the college and our sporting system."

Sam Lorimer was named sportsman of the year, with Helen Murray winning the accolade of sportswoman of the year.

Other awards were presented to Ben Edkins for his contribution to sport in the community with Darlington Spraire Lads and Lasses Football Club, to Callum Blades for service to sport and to Daneille Murdock for her work within the student sport management team.

Hannah Mattinson won a new award, the Wayne Hedley trophy, for outstanding contribution to sport in college, recognising all the work she has done in promoting college sport and putting QE on the sporting map.

Mr Carroll added: "A large number of our students participate in a wide range of sports at all levels, and I am extremely proud of all of them. The ceremony was a fitting and enjoyable way of marking the end of a highly successful sporting year."