SIX caring students from Beacon Hill High School, Warbreck HiIl Road, who are helping to beat the bullies, received Princess Diana of Wales Memorial Awards at the Hilton Hotel, Blackpool.

The awards, which recognise young people's community achievements, were presented by Coun Mrs Sylvia Taylor.

Known as the Beacon Hill Buddies, the boys provide ongoing peer support and encouragement to other pupils with problems. These may include bullying, homework management, relationships with teachers/parents/friends, etc.

The fourth and fifth formers were trained in counselling skills by Blackpool educational psychologist Pat Haworth, former Beacon Hill behavioural support teacher Julie Easter and fifth form head John Patterson.

"We are delighted to have this national acknowledgement," says head teacher Mike Wilmore. "Our scheme highlights the importance of community awareness. Buddies give up every lunchtime to help their fellow pupils." There are about 15 school Buddies in the scheme which was started by special needs teacher Myra Bolton about two years ago.

The award winners pictured above, left to right, are: Phillip Allan, 15, Leigh Cartmell, 15, Steven Kenney, 15, Stuart Hodgson, 15, Joshua Lalgee, 15. An award also went to Stephen McCready, 16.