The Wings of Hope Achievement Awards have gained the support of celebrities and other public figures not only in the UK, but also in India. Bollywood legend Mrs. Sharmila Tagore and Ms. Soha Sultan were among the distinguished guests honouring the hard work and fundraising efforts of the winning students.

Student winners were from Francis Holland School in Sloane Square, Haberdashers' Aske's School for Girls, Heathfield School, Herschel Grammar School, Merchant Taylor's School for Boys, North London Collegiate School, Northwood College, Nower Hill and Woodford County school in Essex.

Mrs. Rajni Sriram, co-founder of the charity, told the press: "I feel so very proud today to see our own British students who have done amazing things in order to help underprivileged students in other parts of the world. The Wings of Hope is grateful for the support of these students, their teachers and parents." Beautiful trophies were handed over to the students by the distinguished guests.

The highlight of the evening was a speech made by Master K. Pradeesh, a 13-year-old student from the school in South India supported by the charity. His heart-rending speech was delivered with confidence and brought many a tear to the guests' eyes. K. Pradeesh said that the support of the charity had been a life-changing experience for him.

Having never even travelled by train, the flight to London was equally life-changing. Later, K. Pradeesh spent a few days sight-seeing in London, carrying back with him a headful of unforgettable memories to entertain his friends at school...

Distinguished guests at this year's event included Lord McNally, Leader of the Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords, and Lady McNally. Indian Cricketer Mr. Mansur Ali Khan was also present.

The theme of this year's glittering event was 'Lights, Camera, Action - A Hollywood/Bollywood Experience'. The Ballroom was decorated to reflect the theme, and of course the entertainment befittied the occassion too! Ms. Anita Rani from BBC Asian Radio was the presenter for the evening.

Sponsors of this year's black tie event were: ARUP, Berry Floor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Revital health foods, Saatchi & Saatchi, SG Hambros and The Supreme Group with media partners - B4U - Asian Television channel.

Team 'Auction Group', overall Winners of the Wings of Hope Achievement Award. Students from Francis Holland School, with Mrs.Sharmila Tagore, Ms. Soha Sultan and Mrs. Rajni Sriram.

Master K. Pradeesh from School in South India which is supported by the charity.