Three journalism students have been honoured for overcoming “unique challenges” during their studies.

The annual Bob Norris Award is given in memory of the former Hampshire Chronicle journalist and National Council for the Training of Journalists chairman.

It is presented by the Solent branch of the National Union of Journalists to one student studying at each of Bournemouth University, the University of Portsmouth and Southampton Solent University.

This year’s winners are Millie Payne, pictured, from Southampton Solent, Honor Dench, from Bournemouth, and Chloe Brewster, from Portsmouth.

Each will receive a trophy, certificate and cash awarded by the branch as a tribute to former chairman Bob.

Millie, pictured, said: “The only word I can use to describe winning this award is humbling.

“It’s amazing to be recognised by the NUJ for achievement, and it makes a lot of the hard work I’ve put in both inside and outside of university really worth it.”

Honor added: “To receive such an award is an honour, and I am delighted to have been recognised in such a way.

“Not only am I incredibly grateful to have been chosen, but also for the continued support from those who have helped me to reach this point in my studies.

“This award is a reassurance to trust my abilities and to not doubt myself as I progress further into the world of journalism.”

And Chloe said: “I’ve really enjoyed my studies in Portsmouth and have felt so supported by my lecturers and my coursemates, so to be recognised for my efforts in both the lecture hall and out of it is the cherry on top.”