THE winners have been revealed in this year's Worcestershire Education Awards.

Finalists, their families and friends gathered at Worcester Arena on June 20 to celebrate the achievements of people who go the distance to make a difference in education across the county.

Guests had a delicious three-course meal and drinks in a glamorous black-tie event featuring guest speaker Alex Flynn, who is an adventurer who ran 10 million metres for charity after being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease aged just 36.

Mr Flynn said: "The diagnosis hit me like a truck, but I picked myself up and used it as a catalyst to make change happen.

"People say I am an inspiration, but everyone here tonight, you are the inspiration."

After speeches from Worcester News events director Sue Griffiths and editor Michael Purton, the winners were announced:

Special needs (SENCO) Award: Beverly Blower - The Aspire Academy

Independent School of the Year: Bredon School

Community Involvement: Pitmaston Primary School

Early Years Education: Abberley Pre-School

Support Staff of the Year: Kay Barrett - Bowbrook House School

Primary School of the Year: Perryfields Primary PRU

Newcomer of the Year: Amanda Mason - St Clement's CE

Secondary School of the Year: The Bewdley School

Teacher/Lecturer of the Year: Anna-Marie Rooney - Our Lady of Mt Carmel

College/Post-18 Education & Training Provider of the Year: Worcester Sixth Form College

Unsung Hero: Margaret Jones: Fort Royal Community Primary

Head Teacher/Principal of the Year: Therese Langford - St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

Anna-Marie Rooney, winner of Teacher of the Year, said: "I'm overwhelmed and lost for words.

"I love it at Mount Carmel and it is a real family. I can't imagine working anywhere else."

Dave Hadley-Pryce from The Bewdley School said: "Looking at the field we were up against, it is really special to win this award and we are truly humbled. Thank you to our parent body for all their support."

See the Worcester News on Thursday, June 27 for all the pictures and quotes from the big night.