The Leeds United Foundation celebrated the achievements of some of the most inspirational people across the region at the "Leading Lights" Awards ceremony last Wednesday night.

The annual event, hosted this year by Adam Pope of BBC Radio Leeds, saw presentations from sponsors and partners to a number of people who have exceeded expectations in their commitment to the community.

Young United striker Lewis Walters was awarded the PFA Player in the Community 2015 for his work in supporting events hosted by the Foundation. Lewis was in the Under-21 squad which drew 1-1 with the Isle of Man team on the same night so his award was collected by first team captain Liam Cooper and team mate Aidan White. On collecting the trophy Liam Cooper said, "It is great to see so many young people achieving something positive and I am sure Lewis (Walters) will be proud to be among them. As players, we know how important these community links are and we are happy to be involved in this event."

Also among the winners was young coach Molly Cawthorn, who first joined the club as a junior player. Having represented England at Under-16 level, Molly turned her attention to coaching and at the age of 18 became a part time coach with the club's community programme and is now completing a level 3 qualification in Teaching Primary School PE. Molly won Adult Learner of the Year and picked up the award from former Mayor of Leeds Tom Murray, who is a Trustee of the Leeds United Foundation.

Other winners on the night included Nathan Jackson (Young Learner), Callum Shooter (Ability Counts), James Northam (Futsal Player of the Year) and Claire Wilkinson (Apprentice of the Year).

Community Coach of the year was awarded to Simon Jeffels, a former professional centre half who joined the Foundation fifteen months ago. Jeffels, who was presented with his award by Aidan White and Liam Cooper, said, "To be nominated for this award is an honour but to win is something special. I am sure my family will be really proud of this achievement and I would like to thank the staff of the Leeds United Foundation who have supported me throughout."

19-year-old Jed McGinnity won the Silver Stars award sponsored by the family of former Chairman Leslie Silver. Alan Scorfield, Senior Executive of the Leeds United Foundation said, "We are really pleased to be associated with this award which is a legacy of a great man who was a philanthropist in life and supported many great causes, especially in Leeds. Jed is a worthy winner of the award as he has grown in character and personality over the year or so he has been with us and epitomises what this award is about."

The event was a great celebration of the work of the Leeds United Foundation and clearly illustrated the breadth of community work carried out by the charity. Trustee Andy Howarth said in his closing remarks, "The Leeds United Foundation is currently the city's best kept secret and that needs to change. The Foundation affects over 25,000 lives every year and has an impact on virtually every street in the city in some way. Events like these highlight what goes on behind the scenes at the football club and it is vital that the Foundation gets the support it needs to carry on."

Anyone wishing to support the work of the Leeds United Foundation can find out more by contacting Alan Scorfield, Senior Executive Officer, on 0113 367 6015 or by email at alan.scorfield@leedsunited.com