Stories of success and tales of triumph over personal struggles were shared when students at West Herts College were honoured at an awards ceremony.

Tears of pride and joy were shed last night (Thursday) during the college's fifth annual Celebrating Success Awards, where more than 40 prizes were handed out by guest speaker Mick Dennis, a sports journalist, and Watford MP Claire Ward at the college's Cassio campus, in Langley Road.

Among the winners were Pam Reynolds, 44, who won an individual award for her outstanding commitment to her counselling course, despite having cerebral palsy and M.E.

Pam, who volunteers her time as a bereavement counsellor at the Peace Hospice, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be nominated for this award. It means so much to me. The tutors and other students at the college have all been absolutely super and so supportive. I couldn’t have wished for more.”

Collecting an award for enterprise was catering student Sam Mead, from Croxley Green.

He has organised a number of fundraising events during his time at the Cassio campus’s training restaurant, as well as in community venues including his local church.

Sam, 17, said: “I want to do events management at university. I love being around people and really enjoy customer service. I particularly enjoy dealing with customers who are always happy to complain.”

Each gold envelope presented to the award winners contained a certificate, and a £100 cheque donated by local businesses.

Mr Dennis told students he felt “ordinary” and “a fraud”, while being surrounded by “so many inspirational people”.

He said: “It’s wonderful to be here to celebrate the success of so many people from so many backgrounds who have simply done things their way in order to achieve. Well done to you all.”

Ms Ward added: “It’s wonderful to hear so many stories of people achieving their full potential, within the college and in the local community. Wherever your interest lies, be it in care and early years, performing arts or sport, you are vital to the future of our community. Tonight I say to you, be the best that you can be.”