Double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington was a special guest at Samworth Church Academy’s awards night.

Students were recognised for a variety of successes in academic excellence, personal development and contribution to academy life.

Rebecca spoke to the audience about her own path to success and the hard work it takes to succeed.

Lisa McVeigh, principal of the Mansfield academy, said: “The Awards Night was a fantastic recognition of the talents and achievements of our students.

“It is a celebration not only of academic success, but also the admirable characters and inspirational students we have at the academy.

“We are grateful to Rebecca Adlington for taking the time to present awards and speak to the audience about her own incredible story.

“Finally, we would like to thank the families who attended, and to the wider Samworth community whose support means that our students continue to excel and thrive in education.”

Pictured, from left, are governor Val Leivers; Carl Bennett, team director of learning; Lucie Kealey, winner of the Keith Barry Award; principal Lisa McVeigh; Owen Shakespeare, winner of the Thomas Burton Award; Charlotte Humber; and Chris Vallance, strategic director of student experience.