Jack Petchey Speak Out Regional Final!

On the 5th May, the locals of Southend and Rochford gathered at Westcliff High School for Girls to watch 17 young people talented in public speaking for the Jack Petchey Foundation’s popular competition.

Topics ranged from mental health, cheating, euthanasia, and supermarkets. The teens addressed topical issues and were all competent and knowledgeable in their chosen field. The judges told the speakers that they would be looking for composure, clarity, enthusiasm and inspiration. The competitors definetely delivered all of the above!

A very interesting speech came from Nathan Smith of Shoebury school who spoke about how will is power. Nathan had the audience laughing, inspired and pleased that he could talk with competence on his topic.

There was music provided by the school and that came mostly from Caoimhe Bassett who delivered and entertained the audience.

Alicia Halliday (St Bernard’s Catholic High School) spoke about more of a relaxed topic. Alicia spoke about her hatred for supermarket isles and had the crowds laughing about the problems that she has with the self-service machine.

The event was hosted by Deborah Matthews, last year’s winner and the audience thoroughly enjoyed her humour.

The winner was Grace Adesina from Westcliff High School for Girls followed by Conrad Kunadu and Molly Archer-Zeff.

Sir David Amess and Mr Mayor Cllr Chris Walker were present for the awards.

For more pictures, click here.