A Teddington school pupil was given an award last month for her contribution to her local guide unit.

Sabina Mert, 12, won the Jack Petchey award for being an Outstanding Team Member at the 6th Teddington Guides.

In her nomination, guide leader Jennie Haines highlighted Sabina's enthusiasm for guiding activities and her kind and helpful personality.

She singled out the young guide's leadership skills such as helping younger guides with activities and making sure everyone feels part of what's going on.

"Her generous personality is liked by guides and leaders and we love having her in the unit," she added.

Sabina was thrilled to receive her award.

She said: "When I got the award letter I was very surprised and excited about it.

"It really brightened up my lockdown day!

"I enjoy being a guide and I miss all my guide friends.

"I made quite a few friends in my unit and learned a lot: putting up a tent, baking cakes, making bath bombs and generally having fun and helping each other and our community."

Due to lockdown restrictions, Girl Guiding activities are currently taking place online.

But Girlguiding UK are now looking into how Units like Sabina's might be able to meet in person again after schools go back on March 8.

As well as being a keen Guide, Sabina is a year 8 pupil at Teddington School.

Her personal tutor, Science teacher Paul Gunn, was also full of praise for her.

He said: 'Sabina is a very dedicated student who is always extremely enthusiastic about all activities that she is engaged in.

"She exudes a fantastic 'get-up and go' energy that gives her a purposeful direction to take part and contribute to charitable events and good causes."

Fellow Teddington 6th Guide, Neuza Elias-May, also won the award for being an Outstanding Team Member.

In her nomination, Jennie praised Neuza for her helpfulness to others, including assisting leaders when they set up the room and always clearing away after activities.

Like Sabina, Neuza loves guiding activities and looks after other guides while taking part.

"She volunteers for any community action the unit takes part in and always has a smile for her fellow guides and leaders," Jennie added.

Both guides were recognised by the Jack Petchey awards which are run by the foundation of the same name.

Set up in 1999 by multi-millionaire philanthropist Sir Jack Petchey, the foundation's aim is to inspire and motivate young people in London and Essex.

The award scheme celebrates the achievements of young people aged between 11 and 25 living in this area.

Winners receive a certificate, pin badge and a book from Sir Jack.

They will also choose how to spend a £250 grant to benefit their school or organisation.