DISABLED schoolgirl Ruth Madeley will be one of the first children in the country to receive a new honour created in memory of Princess Diana.

The Mount St Joseph pupil has been chosen for a Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award for young people because her outstanding contribution to the community makes her an inspiration to others.

Staff at the Farnworth school nominated Ruth for the determined way she has overcome her physical difficulties to help others and enhance the lives of those around her.

The Westhoughton schoolgirl is confined to a wheelchair after being born with Spina Bifida but tirelessly raises money for Whizz Kidz to help children like herself and is on the junior board of the charity.

She was an admirer of the late Princess's charity work and is delighted to be one of the first secondary pupils in the country to receive the award in her memory.

Ruth said: "I am really pleased because it is so special. I thought she was a really nice person who did a lot of good work for others.

"I like doing anything I can because giving something back makes you feel good and does something for somebody else."

Mount St Joseph's special needs co-ordinator Stella Whitaker said: "Ruth is a fine young woman and an example to us all.

"She may be in a wheelchair but she is the least disabled person I know. She is an absolute credit to her parents and the school.

"She has suffered physical setbacks, major surgery and so on, but she never lets it dampen her enthusiasm or positive approach to life. The example she sets within the school and the work she does for Whizz Kidz means she fits the bill perfectly for this award."

Proud mum Jacquie will be there when Ruth picks up her award from Education Secretary David Blunkett at a special present ceremony next month.

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