A STAR athlete from Haringey is in the race to take home a Spirit of London Award which celebrates the achievements of the capital's exemplary young people.

Sprinter Sean Safo-Antwi, 19, who represented Great Britain at the European Junior Champion Clubs Cup in the 4x100metres relay, was nominated by Haringey Council for leading by example by turning his own life around.

Having realising he was wasting his talents hanging around the streets, Sean began chanelling his energy into sport and gave his life a positive focus.

He is now one of 21 finalists and will attend the glitzy ceremony being held at Alexandra Palace on November 27 presented by Tottenham R&B star Lemar and former Eastenders actress Brooke Kinsella.

Sean said: "The reason I think I was nominated is because I made a dramatic change from being bored, doing nothing on the streets, to becoming a very good athlete and going to college. I followed my dream. I will continue to lead on to success until I have achieved all my goals.

"If I was to win the Spirit of London Award I will be delighted and pleased with myself. No one ever notices my talent and skill, and being nominated for it tells me that there are people out there who are watching the good things young people do."

The Spirit of London Awards, in its first year, is being developed by the Damilola Taylor Trust in partnership with other youth organisations, to highlight the successes of London's inspiring teenagers.

Several of Haringey's young people have been nominated and ten young people from the borough will be help co-ordinate the event on the day.

Councillor Lorna Reith, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Haringey has so many inspirational young residents who are a credit to our borough.

"I am delighted that the judges have recognised the achievements of Sean Safo-Antwi and I wish him the very best of luck."