THE people of Darlington came together on Tuesday night to celebrate incredible youngsters who live in the town.

The Dolphin Centre was bursting with song and dance with breath-taking performances by the Abbey Federation of Schools, Acropolis, Stagecoach – Performing Arts School for 14 to 16-year-olds and Hurworth Streetdance ensuring that the Vibe Awards 2016 had an upbeat party atmosphere to recognise young people who have overcome obstacles in their lives to shine brightly.

The star winner of the night was Alicia Robinson, 14, whose wonderful voice has taken her on a journey from a shy youngster, who would not talk to people, to a top performer who was named Singer of The Year 2016.

Alicia, who suffered meningitis as a child, also gained a distinction in her first LAMDA Theatre Exams and has raisd £4,100 for charity. She also won the Contribution to the Community award.

Brother and sister Rebecca and Kieran Savage were named winner of the Achievement Against the Odds in Lifetime award.

The 15-year-old and ten-year-old overcame hard times by sticking together and supporting each other when they needed it the most.

Joint winner of the award was Olivia Rowell, 16, who has battled to continue her education while fighting a brain tumour despite intrusive medical treatment, hair loss and losing her sight.

Olivia Tarring was named star winner of the Contribution to the Arts category.

The young musician has taught herself to play several instruments and runs Longfield School Choir.

She also sings with the Darlington Youth Choir and Durham Youth Choir and plays trumpet in the Darlington Youth Brass Band. She also attends the South Regional Wind Band.

Achievement Against the Odds in Learning winner Jonathan Raiseborough, 18, overcame significant personal issues alongside studying for his AS levels and managed to illustrate a children’s book that raised money for the National Autism Society.

Last night saw a whole class of youngsters receive a special award for the way in which they supported a fellow student, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Year 11M from Carmel School were praised for their dignity and strength.

Compere and former Northern Echo editor Peter Barron described the evening as a rollercoaster of emotions.

He said: “These young people are an example of all that is great about the people of Darlington.’’