Young role models win award glory

THREE inspirational young carers who are all pupils at the same high school are to receive a prestigious award set up in memory of Princess Diana.

The Currie Community High School pupils are among just 50 young people in Scotland who have been selected to receive the prestigious honour.

They have been chosen after displaying an "outstanding and selfless contribution to their communities" and are said to be "positive young role models" who inspire others.

Nicole Watson, 13, Olivia Laybourn, 13, and Rebecca Chesser, 16, will all be presented with their awards at a special ceremony on Tuesday at the Scottish Parliament.

First year pupil Nicole Watson was nominated by her friend and teachers for "working tirelessly" to help her mother Lesley, who suffers from a bone condition called Fibrous Dysplasia.

Since the age of five, she has been supporting her mother, helping out with household chores, shopping and walking the dogs.

Nicole said: "My mum needs help walking around and doing things. If she is in a lot of pain, she will stay in bed all day and I have to deal with things.

"It sometimes gets on top of me but it usually goes well.

"I got told a couple of weeks ago that I had won the award and I feel really proud and excited.

"My mum thinks it's great."

Schoolmate Rebecca, who is in fifth year, has acted as a carer for her parents over the last few years and helps her family with domestic chores.

Despite the difficult circumstances Rebecca faces, she is described as a model pupil and always contributes to the wider school activities.

Olivia, a first year pupil, will receive her award for her work as a young carer and for supporting and mentoring younger pupils. She is also a dedicated fundraiser, helping out at charity events.

Ben Stewart, who works in Currie High's support for pupils department, said: "We're absolutely delighted with all their fantastic achievements. They are all wonderful pupils.

"They are performing well both in and out of schools and are a huge credit to their families."

Maggie Turner, chief executive of the Diana Award, said: "We are immensely proud of our award holders and think that it is important that young people like Nicole are recognised for being selfless and supportive of others. The young people represent a growing community who will act as a force for good and help build a positive society in which we would all like to live."