INSPIRATIONAL teachers, pupils and all those who help make Bolton's schools outstanding were celebrated at The Bolton News School Awards tonight.

The fourth award ceremony took place at the Last Drop Village. And this year, a record number of nominations were received.

Fifteen awards were handed out with each winner receiving a huge applause and cheers, with some enjoying a standing ovation.

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Maxine Wolstenholme, news editor at The Bolton News, said: "We have been running this event for the past four years. It was started as a way to celebrate the wonderful quality of education in Bolton, and especially the gifted and dedicated people who work so hard to make sure it stays that way.

"The event has grown, and this year, we have had a record number of entries for the 15 awards. That speaks of the recognition that parents, fellow pupils and staff want to give to the people who make school in Bolton a place that children want to go, a place where they enjoy learning, playing sport, having fun together."

Award sponsors this year included Bristol St Motors, Farnell Jaguar/Landrover, Cole Securities, Bolton Council, Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe, Surveyroof, Unison, Prestolee SCITT, Silverglide, Auto Crash Parts Ltd and Rosehill Nursery.

WINNERS: Primary School Pupil of the Year: Hannah Dewhurst from and Harley Barker

Unsung Hero of the Year: Katherine Gore of Bolton School

Primary School of the Year: Ladywood School

Secondary School of the Year: Kearsley Academy

Secondary School Pupil of the Year: Sammy Brick-Bevitt from Smithills School

Hayley Mathieson Fundraiser of the Year: Grant Heppleston and Jon Hitchen from Bolton School

Support Worker of the Year: Deborah Tonge from Smithills School Primary

School Teacher of the Year: Andy Done from Masefield Primary School

Primary Headteacher of the Year: Amanda Hulme from Claypool School

Secondary Class of the Year: Class 7A at Smithills School Secondary School

Teacher of the Year: Damon Hesford from Sharples School

Secondary School Headteacher of the Year: Mike Sidebottom at Smithills School

Teaching Assistant of the Year: Sam Flanagan at St Joseph's RC High School

Primary Class of the Year: Mrs Bowman and her class at St Saviour's CE Primary School

Lifetime Achievement Award: Bill Charnley, governor at St Joseph's RC High School