A 15-YEAR-OLD girl who has been an inspiration to fellow school pupils says she feels "privileged" to be nominated for a Community Champions award.

Staff at Pingle School, in Swadlincote, said Lauren Mann had overcome personal difficulties to become a much-valued member of the school.

The year-10 pupil is currently studying for her GCSEs and aspires to either work in photography or in law.

She also attends dance sessions outside of school and Pingle pupil support co-ordinator Amanda Chiswell said she was a polite and lovely pupil.

She said: "Lauren is a pleasure to have around at school.

"She always tries her best and never uses past experiences to be used as an excuse for anything.

"She is an inspiration to others who perhaps don't realise how fortunate they are."

Lauren said: "It's a real privilege to be nominated and I feel really pleased about it."