OUTSTANDING work in the community was recognised at the University of Hertfordshire Students’ Union annual awards in Hatfield.

Attended by Welwyn Hatfield mayor Carl Storer, university deputy vice-chancellor, professor Graham Galbraith and dean of students Ross Renton, the Student Recognition Awards celebrated those at the Hatfield-based uni who had made a significant contribution over the past year.

More than 30 trophies were presented, honouring volunteers to community champions and university societies.

The Student Links Award, which highlights the work of university students interacting with local primary and secondary schools, was awarded to the Oriental Society.

The team held an interactive origami workshop at St John’s C of E Primary School in Lemsford.

Amy Ogle, a student whose project led a mural wall decoration at Sandridge School, won the Community Champion trophy.

The St John Ambulance LINKS Society received the Society Community Volunteering Award.

This was after members devoted hundreds of hours at venues and events across the county, including attending WGC Football Club, Welwyn Rugby Club, at Watford’s Vicarage Road Stadium, University of Hertfordshire American Football team matches and the London Marathon.

Student Kenny England received the Employability Award, sponsored by the university’s careers and placements service.

Kenny was part of a team who achieved a student radio first by making a completely visual radio show, gaining reviews including comments made online by esteemed radio blogger Matt Deegan, Radio 1 executive producer Joe Harland and coverage by Radio Today.

UHSU president Erica Masefield said: “It is great to celebrate the achievements of our students throughout this year.

“The Students’ Union offers many opportunities to learn new skills for students to enhance their employability and interact in the community, so it is great to see so many students getting involved.”

Dean of students Ross Renton added: “As a university we are very proud to support the Students’ Union with this initiative.

“We have some amazing students here and it is really inspirational to see so many of them volunteering in the local community and supporting each other.”

The University of Hertfordshire Students’ Union provides independent representation and support to the 27,500 students attending the Hatfield university.

Based on the College Lane Campus, the students’ union offers opportunities and services to students ranging from over 90 societies, an advice and support centre, job centre, lettings office, retail shops, skills training and volunteering projects.

* See www.uhsu.co.uk for further information.