Singer Toyah Willcox has launched this year's Essex Champions of Learning Award.

The awards are run by the Learning and Skills Council, Essex (LSC) and search for inspirational champions of learning.

Celebrity supporter - Toyah Wilcox at the launch of this year's Champion of Learning awards with last year's champions Pat Doran, of Chelmsford, and Paul Pallent, of Colchester Picture: ADRIAN RUSHTON

Champions of Learning recognises and rewards Essex people who are outstanding examples of achievement through learning, whether they have improved their own lives, or the lives of others.

There are eight categories, each with prize money of £500, which winners are encouraged to use for further learning.

Toyah, the 1980s pop star who now stars in West End musicals and was a contender on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, launched the awards during a radio broadcast in Chelmsford.

LSC Essex's spokeswoman Nicki Uden said: "Toyah is a real champion of learning herself and we are extremely pleased that she is enthusiastic about being involved."

To enter yourself or nominate someone, nomination packs are available from Steff Monk at LSC Essex 01245 550075, or from the website at www.championsof learning.co.uk

Published Tuesday January 13, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette