THE best of the Bolton school community have been given a chance to shine.

Behind classroom doors are thousands of teachers, pupils and staff working hard every day to bring top class education to the community.

And here we honour the achievements of those people and places that make up all that’s good in the borough’s schools at the second Bolton News School Awards.

Primary School Pupil of the Year, sponsored by Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe: Barbar Bashir and Abdullah Patel (joint winners)

SOMETIMES it is simply too difficult to choose just one winner.

And so this year we have two inspirational winners for Primary School Pupil of the Year.

Both stories really did melt the hearts of everyone at the ceremony.

Heathfield Primary School pupil Barbar Bashir, aged 10, was nominated by Jo Lindon at the school.

She told how the youngster and his family suffered personal tragedy in Pakistan after an earthquake struck.

He travelled with his father to the country to support close family through the bereavement.

She wrote: "Barbar returned to school after a prolonged absence and was supported by all of his classmates and peers.

"He tries so hard in learning and always has a smile.

"His determination and cheerful attitude are a great example for us all."

Barbar, who lives in Great Lever, said: "I'm really happy to win. It was good to go up on stage to collect the award and I will be taking it to school to thank the staff who nominated me."

Abdullah Patel was recognised for giving his younger brother the best gift of all.

The 11-year-old donated bone marrow to Yahya to help him in his fight against a rare condition — before going back to school to sit his SATs.

Yahya, aged seven, has the rare Diamond Blackfan Anaemia and a bone marrow transplant was the only real way to improve his quality of life.

Abdullah, who is now at Eden Boys School in Halliwell, said: "He's a good brother, really good.

"Getting the award is really amazing! All the children in my year have been really happy for me, which is great."

Yahya, who attends Pikes Lane Primary School, said: "I'm really happy to be with my brother tonight and be on stage with him for the award."

Joining the boys on stage was Yahya's teacher Jenna Hickman who praised him for his amazing spirit and hard work throughout his time battling the condition.

She said: "Just like his hero Batman, Yahya is heroic, fearless and brave.

"And just like Batman had Robin, Yahya had an alliance of wonderful friends and family."

Dad Zayd, who lives with his family in Great Lever, added: "The award was so unexpected and I am really, really proud of them.

"The award is more than they both deserve. it has been a long road but we are getting through."