The family of a young graduate who passed away have presented a trophy in her memory to another talented pupil.

Emma Smith, who went to Minster College, died aged 23 in January this year, after a battle with leukaemia.

Following this, the Isle of Sheppey Academy decided to introduce an Emma Smith Memorial Trophy to be presented to someone who has shown outstanding love, strength and courage.

It was organised by head of sixth form Victoria Standing, who taught Emma law and pupils and staff had to nominate who they thought deserved the award.

Emma’s family then had to chose the final winner who was given a trophy and £50 in vouchers.

Emma’s mum Julie, of Scrapsgate Road, Minster, said they chose Year 13 pupil Rowan Ellis as she has been through a hard times, but still has shown strength and courage in her personal life as well as her education and has gained a place at the Italia Conti Dance Academy in London.

Mrs Smith said: “Rowan was so grateful she had been picked and she really deserves it.

“It’s a nice gesture by the school to do that in Emma’s memory. It acknowledges what she achieved while she was there.”