Home   Canterbury   News   Article

Whitstable teenagers collect countywide honours at gala night to celebrate young people's achievements

Spirit of Try Angle award winner Joshua Taylor receives his award from television presenter Kirsty O'Brien
Spirit of Try Angle award winner Joshua Taylor receives his award from television presenter Kirsty O'Brien

A disabled athlete from Whitstable has been voted the overall winner of a countywide competition which recognises youngsters’ achievements and effort.

Joshua Taylor, 16, who attends St Anselm’s school in Canterbury and was nominated by his school house manager for his sporting success, received the Spirit of Try Angle from television presented Kirsty O’Brien at a gala ceremony.

Two years ago Joshua, of Faversham Road, attended a Playground to Podium scheme organised by Sport England to identify disabled young people with the potential to become elite athletes. He joined Invicta Athletics Club and within three seasons has achieved great success through his talent and dedicated training.

In his first season he broke the UK record for 100m in his classification (T38) and in his second he took part in the 2012 Olympic Stadium test events and was selected to take part in the World Championships in Lyon. Joshua, who is ranked number one in Europe and ninth in the world, is now training hard for next season, ready for the European trials and qualification for the European Championships.

Also honoured was 14-year-old Jade Delves of Lucerne Drive, Seasalter, received the silver award in the bravery category.

Jade Delves receives her silver Try Angle award from Police Chief Insp Lee Russell
Jade Delves receives her silver Try Angle award from Police Chief Insp Lee Russell

Earlier this year , she had to undergo emergency surgery for a life-threatening condition, but demonstrated amazing courage in dealing with her own recovery while still being the main carer in her family.

Jade has faced more challenges than most young people but, according to youth worker Lenni Frampton, who nominated her, Jade always manages to move forward and embrace every day as a new one and continues to turn her life around positively.

Lenni says he is hugely proud of everything Jade has achieved against all odds and describes Jade as incredibly caring and naturally nurturing with a drive to achieve with her cheerful persona.

More than 500 nominations were received for the awards, with district winners recognised at five ceremonies in the summer. From the various winners in eight categories of achievement, a judging panel of 40 young people undertook the difficult task of selecting just 24 to be the ‘Spirit of Try Angle’ finalists.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More