by Martin Jefferies

Two teenagers are the toast of Thanet - and Kent - after scooping county awards for their selfless devotion in the face of personal tragedy.

Chloe Wells (pictured, right) won the bravery award at the 2010 Spirit of Try Angle Awards, while Devon Boulton (pictured, below right) was the winner in the volunteering and service to the community category.

Chloe was also named the overall winner at Sunday's ceremony in Ashford.

The 14-year-old, from Margate, cared for her older sister Emily - a former Try Angle winner who was deaf, blind and autistic - until her death this year.

Her mum Melanie suffers from multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis and her dad Steve is recovering from a stroke, so Chloe has been a constant source of support for her younger sister Lillie even when her own health took a turn for the worse.

The Clarendon House pupil was presented with an engraved glass trophy and a certificate by Cllr Bill Hayton, who lives in Ramsgate.

Mr Wells, who was in the audience with his family to watch Chloe pick up her award, said: "I'm so proud of everything Chloe has achieved and I had tears in my eyes when she was announced as the winner. She really does deserve this and after everything she has gone through and everything she has done for us, it's great for her to have this recognition.

"I know Chloe was stunned. Afterwards, she said, 'I can't believe I've won but I'm gutted for the other girls,' which I think speaks volumes about her.

"Chloe has seen what Emily went through and she's determined to make her sister proud and to make the most of every opportunity. She's an inspiration to all of us and she's been our rock over these past few years."

Thanet's second winner of the evening, 16-year-old Devon, from Ramsgate, grew up caring for her late father. His brave battle with Parkinson's disease inspired her to pursue a career in social care and, after difficulties at school, she decided to train as a volunteer.

She gained a placement at a care centre and has turned her life around, growing into a mature and confident young person.

Her Try Angle award was presented by Barry Clout, executive officer at Kent Council for Voluntary Youth Services, and Eve Johnson, director of Kent Youth.

Cllr Mike Hill, cabinet member for community services at KCC, said: "Each year, the Try Angle Awards give incredible young people the recognition and tributes they deserve for their truly inspirational achievements.

"I never fail to be impressed by these young people and I congratulate Chloe and Devon on their success."