A BRAVE Norton College student has received a royal award for succeeding against the odds.

Rachel Benhanmou, 14, was nominated by her school for a

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award. She was put forward because of her outstanding contribution to the

college and the community.

The memorial award was set up in 2000. It is given for service to the community or to the school, or for exceptional personal courage and tenacity.

Children awarded the special certificates have also shown exemplary progress in personal development, especially in adverse circumstances.

Dr Sue Hawes, of the college, said: "We are very proud

of Rachel and we will be making a presentation on December 19 in the college assembly."

The school recently installed an elevator so that Rachel, who is disabled and uses a wheelchair, could attend her classes normally.

Any school can nominate a pupil or group of students aged between 11 and 18. In the year since it was set up, the award scheme has given special recognition to 1,900 pupils from 750 secondary schools. The award is given for service to the community or to the school, or for exceptional personal courage and tenacity.

Updated: 10:01 Thursday, December 13, 2001