Green-fingered Abel wins Jack Petchey award

Abel Anto, a 17-year-old student at St Bonaventure’s School has been awarded a Jack Petchey Award for his work in the community. Headteacher Paul Halliwell, who presented the award, said that Abel has impressed the people of his community with his kindness.

The Year 13 student is about to take A level examinations in Chemistry, Biology and Product Design. He hopes to study Medicine or Bio-Medicine at Warwick or Southampton University this autumn.

Lead Practitioner Mrs Lucie Racon nominated Abel and went on to explain: “Every week Abel volunteers at an allotment in Becontree, helping to grow a variety of vegetables for the Indian Catholic community. The most needy receive the veg and Abel’s work is really making a difference.”