A POPULAR teacher who died of cancer last year was honoured at Blessed Trinity RC College’s annual awards evening.

The school presented the inaugural Sporting Commitment Award in memory of Mick Ennis.

The year 11 awards night saw students celebrate the school’s best ever GCSE results and also receive a range of prizes.

Mr Ennis’ wife, Elaine, and daughter, Claire, were there, as well his mum and brother, as the award was presented to Jordan Isherwood.

Claire Juriansz, curriculum leader for PE and sport, said: “The award is for someone who may not be the best at sport but who gives their all and is always reliable and enthusiastic.

“Jordan can turn his hand to any sport and he is a true all-rounder.”

AMS Neve managing director Mark Crabtree was the special guest and he gave a speech to the students who left in the summer.

He said: “I went to Burnley Grammar School and when I went to school in Burnley the education system was the same as private education.

“Then it got into a terrible state, but it is coming out of it again and Blessed Trinity is leading the charge.

“I was proud to be here as I want to inspire the next generation.

“We have a phrase ‘Making it in Burnley’ and it has two meanings – making it as people, but also making good items here in the town and these students have big opportunities.”

Head teacher Richard Varey said: “Mark believes in the young people of Burnley and Burnley as a town, that it can be at the cutting edge of industry, and that’s a huge inspiration to our students.”

The college trophies went to – Contribution to Community: Florence Grewal; Contribution to College Life: Emily Button; Progress Award: Owais Hyatt; Specialist College Sports Award: Marley Byrne; Specialist College Humanities Award: Lucy Morrell; Contribution to College Faith Life: Ebonie Harrison; The Endeavour Award: Lianna Christian; Sporting Commitment Award: Jordan Isherwood.

Head of year 11 Dawn Montrose added: “These are the first group of students who have come all the way through in this building and it was a celebration evening for them.”