A sixth former who was bullied as a child has won a national prize in recognition of her work helping others.

Maddie Springett is the recipient of the Princess Diana Award for the South East. She was nominated by teacher Paul Murray.

The 16-year-old helped to raise £3,000 for a weekend away for vulnerable young people where they took part in team building exercises to boost their confidence.

She has also been organising a lunch club at her school, Oasis Academy Isle of Sheppey, for 18 young people.

Miss Springett carries her community efforts over to her role as a member of the Kent Youth County Council.

In that capacity she designed a cyber bullying policy and was also involved in making a music video called A Voice in My Head.

The Minster resident, who is studying A-level Maths and English and a BTEC in Art, said: “I was bullied when I was younger and I always felt that I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives.”

An official presentation ceremony for the award will take place in May.

She said: “I was just so happy [when I won]. My family were so pleased because they really support the work I do.”

Miss Springett, a runner-up for The Young Volunteer Award at the Swale Volunteer Awards last month, also runs a dance club and inspects youth clubs around the county to find ways they can improve.