AN AWARD ceremony has praised the hard work of people with disabilities in North East Lincolnshire.
The Foresight Achievement Awards recognise the work of service users and staff at the Newmarket Street centre.
There were 25 categories and more than 65 nominees in this year's ceremony, held at Grimsby Central Hall.
The winner of the Overcoming Barriers to Learning Award, Josh Benetton, pictured right, has broken down barriers that prevented him taking part in activities and is now focused in class.
The 20-year-old, of Grimsby, said: "I have been nominated two years in a row now.
"It shows that I am trying very hard.
"I am getting on with my life and this awards ceremony is where we come to show what we have learned this year."
Friends, family and staff packed out the Central Hall to show their support for Foresight and the work that it does.
Supporting Learners nominee, Robert Shadlock, 51, of Tom Hammond Way, Grimsby, said: "I help out with the service users. I have been a volunteer for two years and I like to help out.
"I make sure that everyone feels equal and happy.
"Just because everyone has a disability doesn't mean they can't do things.
"These awards are very important and if it wasn't for Foresight a lot of people wouldn't have anywhere to go.
George Martin, 71, works for Foresight and was nominated for Volunteer of the Year.
George has been volunteering for around 30 years and works as the main bus escort.
He said: "I was a bit embarrassed to be nominated because I felt there were a lot more people who were more worthy. It would be nice to win but I'm more than happy just to have been nominated"
George's son Chris, 33, was also nominated for an award for Most Improved Learner. Chris is described as always giving 100 per cent effort in his classes. He said: "I'm really happy to be nominated especially because I like to have my photo taken."
Kieran Hayes, of Queensway, Grimsby, was nominated for the Overcoming Barriers to Participation award. Kieran has become more involved in activities with others and acts as a mentor to younger members at Foresight.
The 14-year-old added: "I'm glad to have been nominated."
Kolar Gharib, 57, of Grimsby, was nominated for Volunteer of the Year. She was also nominated for the award in 2009 and has been working at Foresight for four years.
She said: "I see it as a thank you, I don't volunteer to receive an award but it's nice to be appreciated.
"Everyone here puts in so much effort and do deserve some attention sometimes."
Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor Mike Burton said: "The hard work of everyone at Foresight needs acknowledging.
"Foresight is very important and the service they provide is truly amazing.
"The awards event demonstrates what can be achieved.
"Everyone involved from volunteers to centre users should be praised."
