Youngsters from the South Wales Guardian area have been recognised at Radio Carmarthenshire’s Young Achiever Awards.

The ceremony rewards the efforts of young people at its annual awards evening which took place at the Best Western Diplomat Hotel and Spa, Llanelli.

Individuals from across the county received awards in a range of categories from outstanding progress and voluntary work to fundraising and caring.

The Child of Courage award was won by Hannah Poole, a brave girl who gives her best in all aspects of life despite the challenges she has faced.

The eight-year-old began her courageous journey when a teacher noticed her lethargic behaviour and a rash over her body that didn’t disappear when touched.

The class teacher immediately informed the parents and Hannah was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of 4.

During this time, Hannah battled bravely to overcome the disease and returned to Ysgol y Bedol months later back to her happy, positive and enthusiastic self. With regret, Hannah has relapsed this summer.

Within a short two months from her recent diagnosis, she has endured a lumbar punch, chemotherapy to the spine and brain, bone marrow extraction, dressing changes, high fluids through her IV, PEG in her leg only to name a few.

This has meant Hannah has lost a lot of hair, suffers from Mucositis and mobility problems. Through all of this, she has shown great courage and a smile is never far away.

Ysgol y Bedol nominated Hannah because they believe she deserves the recognition as an extremely brave and courageous young girl.

Brittany Alsop-Bingham walked away with the Young Volunteer of the Year award.

The 20-year-old was presented with the first Carmarthenshire’s 500-hour Youth Volunteering Certificate which recognises Britanny’s commitment to share the most precious of resources - her time – to make a difference in the county and her great generosity has had a profound and lasting impact on children and young people in Carmarthenshire.

Brittany has volunteered her time with Carmarthenshire Youth Council, she has been chairperson for the past three years and has lead on the planning of the Youth Conference and other events.

CYC chairperson Brittany Alsop-Bingham said: “I feel very honoured to be awarded with Carmarthenshire’s 500 hours Certificate.

"I feel I have gained a number of skills volunteering with Carmarthenshire Youth Council and my role as chair has increased my confidence with public speaking and my communication skills. I would encourage everyone to volunteer.”

Llandovery College pupil Amelie Kessels was named Young Fundraiser of the Year and the nomination came in from Head Teacher, Guy Ayling.

In April last year she was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour.

Shortly after diagnosis she decided that she would like to help other children and families in the same situation so she set up the charity ‘Amelie’s Rainbow’.

Over the past year and a half, her fundraising has been unstoppable.

Llandovery College pupils have shown their support by holding a sponsored silence and a 24 hour Rowathon.

Amelie also recently received a highly coveted Gold Blue Peter badge for her bravery, courage and positive citizenship.

So far Amelie’s Rainbow has raised £32,000.