A TEENAGER from Thornbury has been selected as an ambassador for her voluntary work in the community. Lizzie O’Brien from Castle School won the District Final 2017 Youth Ambassador Competition by The Thornbury Lions Club – an organisation who dedicate their time to bettering the quality of life of residents.

The 15-year-old was awarded a cup and a £500 bursary after her nomination by Thornbury Volunteer Centre for her substantial involvement in the community.

Lizzie enjoys volunteering with several organisations in the town and has chosen to split her bursary between the Castle School Panache Steel Band where she helps teach younger students and plays regularly.

She also plays music every fortnight for residents at the Alexandra Care Home with a group of three friends.

Lizzie will use the money to buy a new keyboard to take to the care home and to help the band run community workshops.

She was selected by a panel of Lions Club judges on Sunday, January 8, based on her voluntary work and her proposed use of the bursary at the International Young Ambassador 2017 awards.

"I am really pleased to have won this award. I am looking forward to seeing what a difference the money makes to the two organisations I regularly volunteer with," said Lizzie.

During the ceremony held at Newport’s Holiday Inn she was judged on her ability to speak in front of an audience, her caring personality and strong leadership qualities.

Lizzie will now represent the district at the Lions Club International Multi-District Final in Dudley next month.

The Thornbury Lions youth officer Kevin Simpson said: “Very well done Lizzie, you have been totally superb. Thornbury is behind you all the way should you wish to accept the challenge.”