Ashfield teen named county-wide winner at Nottinghamshire youth awards

Sarah Miles has cared for both her parents from a young age.

During her dad’s three year battle with bone cancer which came to an end in September 2011, Sarah was on hand to care for him. She has also been her mum’s carer since 2010, waking up every day at 6am.

Youth leaders at Nottinghamshire County Council nominated Sarah for the Nottinghamshire Outstanding Achievement 4Uth awards which took place at the council’s headquarters on 1st November.

The council’s youth leaders said Sarah’s attitude to life is always cheerful despite the huge challenges she has faced.

Sarah was one of seven of Nottinghamshire’s most remarkable young people whose achievements were celebrated at the county wide final after the search for young achievers began in June.

The 4Uth awards sought to commend and recognise achievement in the following categories; Young people who have been involved in social or business enterprise, Young people who have achieved in sport, culture or other areas, Young carers, Excellence in education and outstanding personal development, Overcoming adversity, physical, emotional, Young people involved in community projects and engagement.

Coun John Peck, chairman of children’s and young people’s services committee, said: “The annual 4Uth awards present an important chance to celebrate positive achievements of young people in all seven districts across our county.

“We were delighted to learn that this year’s competition has generated a record number of nominations. Every year we hear about some truly inspirational young people and it is a wonderful opportunity for them to be recognised for what they do.”

There were 65 nominations from across the county with suggestions coming in from friends, family members, members of the public, youth workers and other people who work in a range of voluntary, public sector and other organisations.

Judging panels, made up of councillors, council staff, community groups and the Nottingham Post, decided the winners from three nominations in each district selected by young people in September.

Winners were selected from Ashfield, Mansfield and Newark and Sherwood among other counties.

Coun Alan Rhodes, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said Sarah’s story was one of inspiration.

“Sarah’s story is one of inspiration. Having lost her father, being her mother’s carer and supporting the wider family and friends, she has had to grow up fast from an early age but shoulders her responsibilities alongside huge achievements in other areas of her life,” He said.

Georgia Nugent from Mansfield and Jodie Combes from Newark and Sherwood also received awards.