Students were commended for their hard work, perseverance and contribution to the life of the school and the wider community at John Kyrle High School’s annual prize-giving. The evening was a celebration of endeavour and achievement across a wide range of activities: sporting, community, academic and in the arts.

Natalie Middlecote in Year 9 was presented with the prestigious Pride of John Kyrle Award, which was given in memory of Sue Vinall last year, Nigel Griffiths said Natalie was another legend of the school.

Pupils and staff see Natalie as an inspiration. She is involved in all aspects of the life of the school, including being part of the Leos club. Mr Griffiths said that Natalie is a young lady with a great sense of humour. She is kind to others and has many friends at school as well as being a very determined individual with an outstanding record of achievement in her work. She has ambitions to be a designer. Mr Griffiths said that Natalie’s family are involved in the community and great supporters of the school. Her brother, Adam, is the current head boy.

Chair of Trustees, Denise Strutt welcomed everyone to the annual presentation evening. She thanked all the those who enabled the pupils to do so well, their staff, parents and carers who enable the pupils to be happy, healthy and successful. Guests included Guy Marshal Brown, former student and presenter of the keynote speech; Reverend Prebendary Kay Garlic, Deputy Lieutenant, representing Lady Darnley; General Sir Peter de la Billiere; the Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Cllr Harry Bramer and his Consort, Marie Ward; former Mayoress Anne Grey; Councillors Valerie Coker and Phil Cutter, and former trustees, including Rod Barker.

Mr Griffiths, drawing on his own experience, encouraged students to ensure their family was the most important aspect of their lives. He said they should aim to always make their loved ones proud. He told students to dream big, always striking a balance between work and play. Mr Griffiths told the audience that growing up he had dreamed of owning a car and travelling to America. He said he worked very hard and had achieved these ambitions, and he said how proud he was of his late mother who had reached her dream to become a nurse, even though she had to gain qualifications while holding down another job. Mr Griffiths concluded by saying that if students were lucky, like him and his mother, they would eventually have a job they loved and that they were proud to do. See this week’s paper for the full story or subscribe to our digital edition Digital Edition now.