26 SCHOOLS have been awarded for demonstrating the importance of creating a safe environment where children can be free from bullying and hate crime.

In association with the Wise Up! initiative and Cheshire Police, students have communicated the need to be aware of those who may feel vulnerable or targeted because of their sexual orientation, disability or religious beliefs.

Wolves forward Pat Moran attended the awards ceremony to hand out certificates of achievement to the compassionate youngsters.

Dancers from Sacred Heart Primary School and St Gregory’s High School performed their Wake Up, Shake Up dance to Viola Beach’s Boys That Sing, in memory of former St Gregory’s pupil Jack Dakin.

The school said: “Jack left a wonderful positive footprint with us.”

Year 10 pupil Lois Dewhirst and school Chaplain Nathan Whitlow performed a moving acoustic version of Boys That Sing, adapted to include anti-bullying lyrics written by Year 8 students.

Bronze, silver, gold and platinum awards were handed out to various schools in town.

Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “The standard of entries is excellent for this year’s Wise Up! awards.

“It is always a wonderful event and it’s very important to recognise the work our schools do to prevent bullying and hate crime.”

“All schools in Warrington have robust policies in place to tackle hate crime and bullying and it is vital that tackling these issues continues to be a high priority to protect our children.”

Two pupils from Great Sankey High School also performed Justin Bieber and DJ Khaled’s hit I’m the One to their own lyrics to promote anti-bullying.

Chapelford Village Primary School, St Thomas Boteler, Culcheth Primary School, St Vincent’s Catholic Primary School and Beaumont Academy all received a gold award for their commitment towards ending bullying.

Stockton Heath Primary School, St Gregory’s High School and New Church Primary School were presented with a platinum certificate, the highest award on the night.