HAGLEY schools' innovative partnership group has secured a top award for its "ground-breaking community initiatives".

The ContinU Trust, which consists of Hagley Catholic High School, Haybridge High School, and six schools in Wyre Forest, scooped the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner's inaugural 'Group Champion of the Community' award.

In recent years, the trust has developed a range of community programmes aimed at developing a sense of active citizenship among young people and helping them contribute to wider society.

The initiatives included combatting hate crime, supporting healthy relationships, exploring physical and mental wellbeing, and raising awareness of domestic abuse.

Rob Chadwick, director of the trust, said: "This award recognises the efforts made by so many fantastic stakeholders locally and crucially it acknowledges the work of many great young people who are already making their schools and communities better places.

"It's an honour to receive it on their behalf and the members of our trust."

About 200 people attended the event at the police's Hindlip headquarters to find out who had won in the seven police categories, four PCC categories and three young good citizen awards.

Nick Parker, director of Vestia Community Housing, who nominated ContinU for the award, added: "The ContinU Trust are a key player locally and a great partner to work with."

The awards were the first ever held in the West Mercia area and recognised the people and organisations who work to help their communities.