Sammie Hamilton, nine, was among just seven young people from across the country recognised at the glittering awards ceremony at BBC Radio Theatre in London last night.

The youngster won the young leader's category for demonstrating social justice, responsibility and commitment to others.

She is chairman of the Chameleon Youth Action Group, supported by Groundwork, that aims to make the Exeter estate a safer place to live.

And she attended yesterday's ceremony with members of her family and Groundwork youth development officer Anne-Marie Lawson, who nominated her.

Miss Lawson said: "Sammie is an inspirational young person who always gives the best of herself while motivating others to help those less fortunate than themselves. She organised a community quiz night to raise funds to educate a young person in Kenya and the event was so successful that enough money was raised to educate three young people for 12 months.

"She has also been instrumental in leading a project aimed at reducing bullying among her peers by encouraging everyone to make as many new friends as possible.

"Sammie believes bullies tend to target young people who are isolated or different in some way so if we all make friends with these young people it is harder for the bullies to get at them.

"Sammie is a wonderful team player who sees the best in everyone, she believes that age should not be a barrier and regularly holds her own against older members if she believes something is unjust."

Sammie, of Millais Road, was invited backstage at the presentation along with her gran Margaret McGhee to mingle with EastEnders stars and other celebrities.


Read more about Sammie in today's edition of the Evening Telegraph.