RISING stars in the world of music, science and sport have been recognised with an outstanding school honour.

Northallerton School and Sixth Form College students Joe Riordan and Hannah Bell have been presented with the coveted John Dennis Award, named after the school's late former chair of governors.

The awards came after they demonstrated "outstanding attitude, commitment and honourable conduct which contributed to the character and reputation of the school."

Joe, 16, of Northallerton, who was also awarded the Ogden Trust Physicist of the Year in 2017, is currently taking his GCSEs and hopes to do A-levels in maths, further maths and physics.

The budding astrophysicist and wannabe indie rock star, who also plays lead guitar in a yet-to-be named college band, said: “As you have to be nominated by a member of staff and then voted for by your fellow students it makes it all the more special to have been chosen as the winner.”

Hannah, 16, of Danby Wiske, who has captained the school team and represented the area, county and Northallerton Ladies at hockey, is also looking to continue her further education in biology, chemistry and PE with ambitions of studying to become a doctor.

“Just to be nominated shows that the staff here really understand the hard work and dedication that I put into my studies and sport. It also makes me feel really proud to have been recognised by my peers and even more determined to work hard in the future,” she said.

Executive principal Keith Prytherch said: “It was a real pleasure to present the award to these very deserving students."