A councillor who is determined to get young people involved in politics has won a national award.

Cllr Mariam Dawood (Manor Park) set-up, funded and ran a two-day politics summer school in Manor Park in August for young people aged 11 to 15.

The 26-year old Labour Party councillor was awarded the Young Councillor of the Year prize as part of the 13th annual Cllr Awards last week.

Cllr Dawood said: "I feel incredibly fortunate to represent my lifelong home of Manor Park. I want to dedicate this award to residents who are a constant source of inspiration to me.

"I am very grateful to have their trust. This dedication extends to my family, especially my parents. Being selected as the Young Councillor of the Year in England and Wales can only mean I have the best family in England and Wales too."

Cllr Dawood, who was elected aged 21, continued: "Growing up in Manor Park, I was involved in community projects because I enjoyed meeting and helping people.

"During that time, I had the support of Councillor Salim Patel and my MP, Sir Stephen Timms. Their encouragement led me to stand for election to continue to support the people of Manor Park by joining the Council.

"I have felt so much kindness and encouragement from local people. Being able to meet with and support them is the best part of the role, which is why I continue."

She was presented with her award at the Roman Baths and Guildhall on Thursday, October 20.

The Cllr Awards celebrate was councillors do locally. The winners were selected by a group of judges that included senior councillors.

Cllr Dawood added: "I'd like to say a massive thank you to the LGIU and CCLA. Even just having a category for young councillors means a lot and the nominations in the shortlist were amazing so congratulations to everyone."

Jonathon Carr-West, chief executive at LGIU, said: "Doing this at a time of immense turmoil and as national politics continues to unravel, underlines (even more) the importance of what we’ve done here tonight - showcasing the vital work of councillors, making a real difference to the lives of local people."

You can watch the awards ceremony at www.youtube.com/watch?v=HV1FlcT5P0k.