A SELFLESS student has received a prestigious national award for her tireless voluntary work with youngsters in Redbridge.

Lavinia Scott was handed the Diana Award in recognition for her efforts working for Barkingside-based children's charity Barnardo's, the Redbridge Youth Opportunity Fund and with disabled youngsters.

The 17-year-old - who manages to fit in studying graphic design at Redbridge College alongside her voluntary work - is also a young carer.

Lavinia was given a silver lapel pin and a certificate signed by Prime Minister Gordon Brown during the awards ceremony at Canary Wharf on December 15 - which was held to mark the outstanding contribution of youngsters aged 12 to 18 to their communities.

She said: "My mum called me as soon as the congratulations letter arrived, and read it down the phone to me.

"Afterwards, she was singing 'congratulations' to me – she was very happy.

"When they read out my name at the awards ceremony and I was walking to the front to get my award I was just thinking, 'Oh wow' It was really good.

"I love working with young children who come from a disadvantaged background – Barnardo's won't be getting rid of me any time soon.

"I volunteer with 8 to 12-year-olds, doing art projects, which I enjoy. I would like to work as an art therapist when I finish studying.

"Barnardo's works to give disadvantaged children a future – for so long, those with learning difficulties and disabilities have been rejected and pushed aside because they're not perfect. People should be friends with anyone, regardless of race, ability and culture."

Martin Narey, Chief Executive of Barnardo's and Chairman of the Corporation at Redbridge College, said: "I would like to send my wholehearted congratulations to Lavinia for this well deserved award."

For more information on Redbridge College, in Chadwell Heath, visit: redbridge-college.ac.uk.