A MAN who works with youngsters who are at risk of being excluded from school has been commended at an awards ceremony.

Ben Long, who works at Clacton Coastal Academy, in Jaywick Lane, Clacton, was given the runners-up prize at the Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success Awards, for helping young people to change their lives. He attended a ceremony at West Road Concert Hall, in Cambridge.

Mr Long supports young people aged 14 to 16 on a Prince’s Trust programme, which is run at the college for those who need support outside mainstream lessons and are at risk of exclusion.

Many of the former truants now have a 90 per cent attendance record.

He said: “I have enjoyed every minute of working with the students on the programme – it is very rewarding watching them develop into mature, young adults.”

His students have completed tasks including a seven-mile sponsored walk for charity and created a DVD on social issues for the school. They have also held a charity quiz.

The Prince’s Trust held the ceremony to honour the achievements of disadvantaged young people and the volunteers who help them.