A Walthamstow youth worker has been hailed as the inspirational young person of the year for her for her voluntary work at a social housing association’s youth club.

Elizabeth Tucker, 17, scooped the award at Circle 33’s recent Community Spirit Awards, which honours residents who make an outstanding contribution to their neighbourhoods.

Elizabeth was excluded from school at a young age but started turning her life around after volunteering at Circle 33’s youth club in Priory Court, Walthamstow.

She seemed to have found her calling, and took on other roles working with young people at Leyton Orient Football Club, Worth Unlimited Youth Bus and Chingford Goals.

She said: “I’m delighted to get this award and am grateful to Circle 33 for all the support they’ve given me over the years. I’m really enjoying my voluntary work at the moment and would like to become a full-time community worker one day.”

Elizabeth has completed Level 1 and 2 certificates in sports training, FA football coaching courses and received a Sports Leader Award from Waltham Forest Sports Development Team.

Sarah Schofield, resident involvement services manager at Circle 33, who nominated Elizabeth for this award, said: “Elizabeth is a fantastic role model and has really helped develop a good community spirit at Priory Court youth club.

"This kind of work has a very positive effect on the community and helps to reduce anti-social behaviour.”