Inspiring stories of dedication and determination were told at the annual City Of Wolverhampton College’s Student Of The Year Awards.

In front of their classmates, lecturers and families, 33 students young and old were presented with trophies in the college’s main hall.

Around 200 guests attended the ceremony at the Paget Road campus, including Lord Turner Of Bilston, Ken Purchase MP and Kerrang! DJ Emma Scott.

The most prestigious award of the night for Student of the Year – the Express & Star Graham Award – was presented to Christopher Jackson. After struggling with a form of autism, Christopher went on to achieve great things at the college and is now at the city’s university studying for a BSC in computer science. He also launched a hugely-successful website dedicated to his beloved rock music which now has more than 300 members and generates funding from advertising.

Christopher, aged 20, from Clothier Street, Willenhall, was presented with his award by the Express & Star’s Wolverhampton news editor Stella Stokes, who described him as an “inspiration”. The student, who was cheered on by proud parents Annette and Steve, said: “I was very surprised to win. I was nervous going on stage but also very proud.”

College principal Ian Millard said: “It’s important to recognise our students’ hard work and dedication and to share their success with others.”

Winners of the awards

Express & Star Graham Award: Christopher Jackson; Kerrang! Radio Award: Elena Smitheman; International Student Award: Navine Graham; West Midlands Police Award For Positive Citizenship: Kirsty Major; Employers Award: ThyssenKrupp and Nicholas Davis Hair and Beauty; Gilbert Mould Memorial Award: Lisa-Marie Holt; Gordon Mason Memorial Award: Luke Postins; Jim Parker Award For Outstanding Contribution To The Community: Tendai Mukona; General Student Of The Year Award winners: Agnes Zelee, Alexandra Issitt, Amy Freeman, Christopher Jackson, David Hanchard, David Turner, Dayle Hallard, Diana Whalley, Edna Wadesango, Emily Wright, Emma Yoxon, Gavin White, Laura Lewis, Matthew Beckett, Meenakshi Sidhu, Melissa Mason, Michelle Holinshead, Nina Corke, Sarah Wenlock, Tendai Mukona, Tom Mason, Tracey Anne Evans, Victoria Brunsdon, Victoria Bryan, Yvonne Chambers.