A young volunteer from Sandwich has been presented with the prestigious Diana Award.

Molly Purvis, 15, of Burch Avenue, was given the special award for her contribution to The Phoenix Centre, the youth community centre on Jubilee Road, Sandwich.

She volunteers her time helping other young people reach their potential through a series of workshops and activities.

The Year 11 Sandwich Technology pupil is also the chairman of the Phoenix Youth Forum and co-chairman of the Dover District Youth Action Group, which is made up of young people and councillors to promote activities.

Youth worker Phil Scott said: “Molly refuses to tolerate any form of bullying and works to eradicate problems of racism, sexism and prejudice through her volunteering.

“We at The Phoenix Centre are extremely proud of Molly. The Diana Award will encourage her to continue their work and will hopefully inspire others to volunteer in their youth projects and the wider community.”

The Diana Award was founded by the Princess of Wales and encourages young people to make a difference in their society and engage in social action.

Once award holders receive their certificates they are invited to join the Diana network, which is a training and mentoring programme offering young people the opportunity to volunteer, gain valuable life skills and put these into practice with internships and work placements.

“Molly refuses to tolerate any form of bullying and works to eradicate problems of racism, sexism and prejudice through her volunteering." - Phil Scott.

Tessy Ojo, the executive director of the award, said: “The Diana Award is proud to recognise young campaigners like Molly who have the confidence and courage to stand up for what they believe.

“We want to develop a growing network of young people who are committed to social action and to improving our communities.”

Molly was presented with her award at the Barclays Bank HQ in Canary Wharf, where she was joined by celebrities Danny Andre, the brother of Peter Andre, his girlfriend Sunny Nersian and Britain’s Got Talent duo Twist and Pulse.