A TEENAGER with cerebral palsy is to receive an award in recognition of the outstanding bravery she has shown in the face of adversity.

Joanne Linskey, 16, a pupil at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, will receive the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Award on Friday in recognition of her determination to succeed despite personal difficulty.

The year 11 pupil, of Weir, has undergone several operations to help straighten her legs and has had to wear leg splints for many years.

But she still Joanne leads an active life including taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme involving a 15-mile trek. She is due to take her GCSEs in summer.

Deputy headteacher Lynda Taylor said Joanne had set a great example to other students.

She added: "She has got thoroughly involved in everything in school. She always has a smile on her face.

"A few years ago we thought her doing the Duke of Edinburgh scheme wouldn't have been possible.

"When she first arrived at the school she was quite introverted but she has grown to become a delightful, outgoing young lady."

The awards were launched in 1999 to recognise and celebrate the contributions secondary school pupils made to their schools and community.

More than 4,200 12-18-year-olds have received recognition for improving the lives of others, enhancing their school or community or showing progress in personal development especially in adversity.

Joanne's father, Dennis said he, his wife Linda and their other daughter Jennifer were all extremely proud of her achievements.

He said: "She is a lovely person who never lets anything get her down.

"Joanne is very determined and does not like to think of herself as different.

"We are very proud of her and are looking forward to her receiving the award."