TOP performing students have been honoured by their college.

East Durham College, based in Peterlee, held a ceremony to mark the achievements of students throughout the previous year.

Five childcare students shared one award when course leaders found it impossible to separate them.

Amy Edwards, 19, from Peterlee; Sharnie Wiffen, 16, from Seaham; Natalie Wilson, 17, from Horden; Kay Griffiths, 16, from South Hetton and Sophie Smithers, 17, from Peterlee were nominated by tutor Anne Richardson for their fantastic efforts while on work placement in nurseries.

Ms Richardson said: "We are asked to nominate one student from our curriculum area for an award, but all five students had impressed their employers so much I felt they should all share the award this time.

"All the students have shown an exceptionally high level of commitment and the placement feedback has surpassed all expectations."

Other award winners were Dean Hubery, for key skills; Tom Gavin, for sport; Simon Newby, for catering and hospitality; Elizabeth Parker, for essential skills; John Foley, for construction; Charlotte London, for hair and beauty; Jade Moralee, for animal care; Liam Holmes, for foundation studies; and Philip Laidler, for electrical installation.

Fred Harrison, the college’s assistant principal, said: "These awards are not just about recognising academic excellence but also about celebrating student endeavour and commitment, whether that’s a student helping or inspiring others or simply working as hard as they can.

"All these students are shining examples of that."