SPORTING excellence was among the things rewarded at the Hillstone School and Hampton pre-prep prize-giving day.

Fittingly, among the 300-strong audience of pupils, parents and staff attending the event was Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth, the former chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board.

The ex-Malvern College student and current chairman of Malvern College Council presented awards to more than 40 pupils for achievements in various academic subjects and the arts as well as sport.

Headteacher Peter Moody said: "The day is always a special one, not only honouring the achievements of so many pupils in so many different fields but also recognising the richness of the educational experience our pupils enjoy.

"It's always a sad occasion too, saying farewell to those who leave us, mostly to the senior school, Malvern College.

"But we send them off with what we believe is that valuable combination of forward-looking, practical and academic skills, together with traditional moral values."