YOUNGSTERS from across Thurrock came together at Seabrooke Rise Community House in Grays to celebrate their achievements in the Essex Boys & Girls Clubs 'Respect Project'. 

Funded by the Charles F French Charitable Trust, the Project affords young people the opportunity to participate in events that take them out of their comfort zone to achieve things they didn't think possible themselves.

Monique Adewoju, EBGC Project Team Leader, Gavin Lee, a volunteer based at Seabrooke Rise, and Elodie Ruth, a young volunteer, led the group of teenagers to rural Wales for team building, camping and mountaineering.

Guest of Honour, Cll Martin Kerin, said: "It is an honour to be back at the Seabrooke Rise Community House to celebrate the achievements of the young people of Thurrock. Hearing their testimonies was humbling.

"Having completed the Respect Project, the young people were about to tell about how they overcame their fears and flourished in activities which really did take them out of their comfort zone.

"A big shout out must go to the volunteers who, by giving generously of their time, have such a positive impact on the future generations. I look forward to many more celebration evenings to come!"