A WHEELCHAIR-bound teenager with cerebral palsy has picked up a national award for her determination to succeed in life.

Steffanie Smith, 13, is a pupil at Primet High School, Colne, and is one of only 770 pupils from 435 secondary schools across the UK to receive one of the prestigious Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Awards, after being nominated by members of staff.

The award scheme was launched nationwide last April to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions made by many secondary school children to their schools and communities.

Steffanie, of Boulsworth Crescent, Nelson, was born 10 weeks premature and despite the limited use of her legs, still manages to take part in all her school and other extra-curricula activities, including netball, karaoke and numerous outings.

The determined teenager also raised £700 for the special care baby unit at Burnley General Hospital last January after a sponsored 12-length swim at Colne Leisure Centre.

Teacher Howard Raw said she was a tribute to the school: "She's absolutely fantastic. Nothing ever gets in her way and she's always laughing and smiling. This award is terrific. She really deserves it."