Olympic hero Dean Macey has paid tribute to a clutch of academic high fliers.

Canvey boy Dean, 23, was guest of honour at Basildon College's annual student awards evening.

The former college student turned World Championship medallist, handed over the main prize to electronics whiz Gareth Willis.

Gareth, from Basildon, is a part-time student at the college and has attended classes while serving an apprenticeship with nearby company, BAE..

Andy Williams, from Basildon College, said more than 200 students, staff, and their families had packed the college's main hall to celebrate 30 awards across a range of disciplines.

He added: "It was a very enjoyable evening.

"We wanted to show off some of our best students and after last year's event, which was a real success, we had to match it.

" We think we did."

Presentation - left to right award winners Leesa Wallace, Lee Stevens, Lorraine Rapley and student of the year, Gareth Willis with Dean Macey at the back of the group

Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

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