Top students from West Cheshire College were presented with awards by a world champion and Olympic silver medallist at the college’s annual awards ceremony.

During the event, held at the college’s Ellesmere Port campus, 45 students gathered alongside their families, employers and tutors to receive their awards from hurdler Colin Jackson.

Shiu Ying Lau, from Ellesmere Port, was awarded the student of the year award for her hard work and determination during her City and Guilds electrical installations course.

World champion and Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson with West Cheshire College student of the year Shiu Ying Lau and principal and chief executive Nigel Davies

Shiu, 20, said: “I chose this course because I wanted to stand out from the crowd and show that women can be successful working in a traditional male orientated industry. I’m really pleased to receive this award tonight, my tutors have said that my work is outstanding which is why I think I have won.”

Courtney Owen, 17, from Ellesmere Port, won the college award for achievement on work placement for her supported Internship.

She said: “I did a placement at Asda in Ellesmere Port. It was a really positive experience for me, I enjoyed it and learnt a lot from doing it.

“Asda commended me on my reliability and for the effort I put into the placement which has given me confidence for when I come to look for a future job.”

Nigel Davies, principal and chief executive at the college, Sarah Wiggins, student union president and Christine Russell, chairman of governors were also guest speakers.

Mr Davies said: “The awards is our chance to acknowledge and recognise the exceptional success and achievements of our students.

“Each one of our award winners has not only achieved but exceeded their full potential here at college and we wish them all every success for the future.”

Colin Jackson added: “It was a pleasure to present West Cheshire College’s students with their awards. The winners have all demonstrated their commitment and dedication to succeed.

“As a budding athlete, I had a dream to be the best at whatever I did and I achieved that by preparing well, staying committed and making sure that I delivered.

“It was wonderful to share my experiences with these students and hope that I have inspired them to continue with their success.”

Dancers at the West Cheshire College awards ceremony, hosted by world champion and Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson