MINEHEAD’S Foxes Academy – widely praised for transforming vulnerable lives – has reached a milestone.

The specialist catering and training hotel for young people with learning disabilities celebrated 20 years on Friday (July 15).

More than 300 students, families and friends gathered at The Regal Theatre, along with the academy’s 95 staff to recognise the important anniversary as well as the achievements of its 65 learners.

This year 23 young people are graduating – 20 of whom have already secured employment or training placements.

The guest speaker was Sally Phillips, the actress from Miranda and the Bridget Jones film series.

She was accompanied by her son Olly, who has Down’s syndrome, and together they gave out the third year graduation certificates.

Sally delivered a speech inspiring the learners and their families: “Here at Foxes you have learned things that most of the people in the world have still to learn,” she said.

Photos and full story in the Free Press