Two Abbey Park students who spent their time during lockdown volunteering to help the community and have been rewarded for their efforts.

Emily Farmer, 13, and Leandro Ferreira, 15, completed more than 100 hours of volunteering over a 12-month period, with Emily supporting and teaching younger dancers at the dance school she attends and Leandro carrying out regular work at the local steam railway. 

The pair were presented with a Gold Award from the Lions Club Young Leaders in Service for giving up their time on a regular basis to support causes in the local area.

This nationwide scheme challenges young people aged 11 to 18 to help their community and at different levels depending on the number of hours logged. 

Both Emily and Leandro are part of the Abbey Park student council and regularly lead the way in their school community on matters for debate as well as more hands on school community projects.

A spokesperson from the school said: “It’s about involving our students as much as possible in their local community, and it’s really important for their career and their future that they’re able to teach others 

“We are really proud of these students.”