A PROJECT which helps support young leaving care has held its annual celebration in York.

Foundation's Springboard Project helps 16 to 25-year-olds in York, Selby and Ryedale who are leaving care to reach their goals and gain independence and self-confidence.

The awards were held at the Marriott Hotel on November 6 to recognise the achievements of the young people and the volunteer mentors.

Carolyn Downes, Springboard project manager, said: "We are so proud of what the young people we are working with have accomplished over their time with the project, they are working really hard to overcome significant barriers and challenges in their lives and we are committed to supporting them to meet their aspirations. The Awards Event was a fantastic way of recognising this hard work and we are really grateful to all those who supported us to organise the event."

Mark Leyland, general manager of the hotel, said: "We were delighted to be able to host and support this event. The Springboard Project do a tremendous job and it was a pleasure to be able to help recognise their young people for all their hard work."

The awards were attended by author and music journalist Paolo Hewitt , a firework display was arranged by local company The Fireworkers, and a quiz was provided by Alan Leach from Shed Seven.

To find out more about the Springboard Project, go to foundationuk.org/SpringboardProject