FOOTBALLERS, rowers and boxers were among talented youngsters who won a share of £8,000 as part of South Oxfordshire District Council’s young achievers’ awards.

They picked up their awards at a special ceremony at Didcot Girls’ School, hosted by the council’s chairwoman Margaret Turner.

On Wednesday at the school in Manor Crescent 32 young people aged 11 to 18 received a certificate, and cheque for £250, to mark their achievements in art, sport and citizenship.

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Among the award winners were Matthew Addison, 17, who won an award for his Scout work with primary schools, footballer Lily Stevens, 17, and boxer Chloe Gorringe, 17.

Matthew, from Didcot, said: “I help out with 1st Brightwell-cum-Sotwell Scouts. I’m very grateful for this grant.”

Chloe, from Berinsfield, near Wallingford, a City of Oxford College student, said: “I train with Berinsfield Boxing Club and I have been boxing for about four years. I really enjoy it.

“This grant will really help me pay for the kit, including some new shorts. All the equipment can be quite expensive.

"So far I have had 13 fights and won seven. My next fight is next month and I am training hard for it. I’m very grateful for the support from the district council. It’s a big help.”