A YOUTH club has been rewarded for their outstanding work with young people who have special needs or disabilities.

Stanway Youth Club, based in Winstree Road, was presented with the Gold Youth Work Award - the highest accolade possible - from Essex County Council.

Amongst the activities for people aged between 13 and 25 are team building challenges, arts and crafts projects and sessions on harder hitting issues like drug and alcohol abuse.

The county council's member for education Ray Gooding (Con) said: "Congratulations to everyone at Stanway Youth Club on this fantastic achievement.

"I was delighted to hear about the great work that they have been involved with recently, helping to benefit their local areas and make a real difference to the lives of young people.

“Centres like this are the lifeblood of their communities and help to teach young people vital life skills, while giving them a sense of purpose and belonging."

Volunteer Liz Gamble added: "At this club we want all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances, to lead independent, fulfilling lives and to reach their true potential.

"Our aim has always been to create an environment where we can provide our young people with activities that are both fun and safe.

“As volunteers, being able to support these amazing young people and to provide them with a place where they can just be themselves is such a privilege.

"To be able to give our time and share our own experiences so they can have the space to freely express themselves and ask questions is so rewarding.”