AN aspiring and talented teenager from Colchester has won a top performing arts award from his college.

Suffolk New College student George Deadman, who is 19, picked up the award for Performing Arts Student of the Year during an online awards ceremony.

And George, who hopes to make it to the big screen in the future, said he was thrilled to receive the accolade and recognition for his work.

He said: “I was home educated before coming to Suffolk New College and chose to go there because I heard that they accommodated that very well.

“Despite lockdown, we were able to put on a few performances and that was the highlight for me.

“I felt like I put in a good amount of work – so to get something like an award out of my time at the college was great.”

He added: “In the long term, I’m hoping to go to drama school and would like to act in stage plays or maybe go on the big screen.”

The Essex-based deputy principal of the college Alan Pease read out a citation about George from his tutor during the ceremony.

Gazette: George Deaman won performing arts student of the year at Suffolk New College

Mr Pease said: “George has made exceptional progress during his time with us and he has an excellent attitude.”

The award was sponsored by the Suffolk New College Student Union.

A total of 30 learners based in Suffolk and Essex received certificates, praise and vouchers during the event which also received support from businesses.

There was also another winner who received praise for her achievements - Lauren Simpson, of Clacton.

Lauren was awarded the title of Animal Studies Student of the Year.