A musical club for young people with learning disabilities in Croydon was recognised by the London Mayor last night.

At the inaugural Culture Seeds Awards, which celebrates creative projects across the capital, Club Soda was presented with the Made by Young Creators award for their work with The Soda Beats Band.

The event recognises the outstanding work of community culture groups in bringing people together, increasing skills and knowledge and introducing people to creative opportunities in their local area.

Nine award categories recognised a variety of projects, including needlework groups telling the stories of African and Caribbean communities, theatre workshops with asylum seekers and a visual arts project for children on school holidays.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I want to congratulate Club Soda for their excellent work in Croydon – you are proof that culture can benefit us all.

"Culture has the power to bring communities together and gives young people positive opportunities to discover their creative talent and to achieve their ambitions.

"Culture can be a powerful tool to steer young Londoners away from crime and criminal gangs and towards education and employment.

"I’m determined that all Londoners have the opportunity to gain from the benefits culture can bring to their lives, that is why I have invested in Culture Seeds, so that our small grants that can help make a big difference.”