TWO special Cwmbran youngsters were awarded for their outstanding achievement.

Ten-year-olds Ieuan Hale and Phillip Thomas, both pupils at Greenmeadow Primary School, were given a special award sponsored by the Argus when they were named Young Achievers of the Year.

More than 350 people attended the evening, which celebrated outstanding achievement by Torfaen youngsters and adult learners, in Cwmbran's County Hall.

Ieuan Hale suffers from Asperger's syndrome, a rare and severe form of autism. His best friend, Phillip Thomas, is a constant help to both Ieuan and his teachers.

Greenmeadow deputy head teacher Karen Middle said: "Ieuan is a very well-behaved pupil and a joy to teach. But he obviously has difficulties because of his condition.

"Philip is a great help because he looks after Ieuan and is there to explain to staff what is wrong when Ieuan has a problem. Sometimes Ieuan won't talk to teachers, but Philip is his best butty and Ieaun will tell him everything. Ieuan moved away to Chepstow but his mother brought him back to Greenmeadow because he wasn't getting on at his new school.

"He has made great strides since coming back and Philip is always there to support him.

"They are both very special pupils and the whole school is proud of them. "We held a special assembly to celebrate their awards, and Ieuan said it was a 'heart-stopping moment' when they were told they had won."

More than 70 youngsters and adult learners were presented with awards on the night, marking a wide range of special achievements.