INVERCLYDE passed on the humanitarian baton at a special ceremony in the House of Commons.

A group of young people from Inverclyde were named the Red Cross’s Humanitarian for Children and People overall winner last year, for their work to drastically reduce knife crime.

Local MP Ronnie Cowan in turn hosted this year’s ceremony, which recognises some of the bravest and most kind hearted youngsters in the country.

He said:“It was both humbling and inspiring to hear these stories. I was really proud to hear of the accounts of what each of these young people had done. 

“Their achievements are indicative of a selfless spirit which should motivate us all to do more in our communities.”

The awards span four categories, first aid, fundraising, community action and volunteering. 

Last year the Inverclyde Peer Support group were recognised in their own category and then won the overall award.

Among those shortlisted this year in the awards, sponsored by Canon, was a seven year old who raised thousands of pounds for people with diabetes. 

The Inverclyde MP was delighted to congratulate the overall winner Ben Harrison, who volunteered in the Calais refugee camp helping to organise accommodation for people in truly desperate conditions.