National Academy pupils receive Diana Award

Jack Chaplin and Corey Palin have been presented with the Princess Diana award in recognition of their efforts in making important changes.

It was following the death of their friend Harrison Carlin and the subsequent death of fellow student, Jeff Townley, who were both killed whilst riding their bikes, that prompted the two pupils to make a positive change.

“It really impressed me how the pair took their sadness and grief and channelled it in a positive way to directly help others,” said Dr John Edwards, National Academy principal. “It is a fitting memorial to their friend.”

Jack and Corey began a fundraising drive in school and the wider community, enlisting the help of the police and councillors to raise awareness of road safety and cycle safety.

This led the pair to pioneer the Put Things Right initiative which led to campaigning to reduce the speed limit in Papplewick where Harrison was killed. It also bought cycle equipment, including helmets, lights and flourescent stickers to be distributed for free to young cyclists across the Hucknall district.

“We held a meeting with representatives from the community and Jack and Corey stood up and said what we should do,” added Dr Edwards. “They really drived the initiative forward and despite them doing their GCSEs they put their energy into the campaign and remained very persistent.”

Together through their combined efforts and adopting the help from community figures, including Ben Marshall, Jack and Corey have raised over £12,000 which they hope to provide cycle training in primary schools in an effort to save future lives.

The Diana Award was set up as a lasting legacy to Diana Princess of Wales to reward inspirational young people.