Merchants' Academy in Withywood has celebrated its first year of excellence with an award ceremony, recognising effort and achievement of students in Years 10, 11 and sixth form pupils.

Dr Stella Clarke, Deputy Lieutenant of Bristol, handed out trophies in 15 subjects including art, English, music and vocational studies.

Additional prizes were also awarded to Jamie Rossiter for his contribution to the community, Bradley Thomas for achievement, and to Cherise Thoms for her Merchants' Academy flag design, which will be unveiled on Saturday .

Principal Stephen Kings said: "It has made me, the staff and parents incredibly proud to see the students' hard work and dedication being formerly recognised. Our pupils have fantastic enthusiasm and energy, and it's great for them to receive the praise they deserve at the end of the year.

"Even though Merchants' Academy has only been open for one year, we have aimed for excellence and, watching our pupils collect their awards, I firmly believe we are on our way to achieving this."