AN Abergavenny 12-year-old who is devoted to her little sister has been given a Young Achiever of the Year award which will be presented tomorrow.

Laura Chicken, of Western Road, will attend a ceremony at Maes Manor, Blackwood, with her father Neil and her mother Sara who nominated her. Mrs Chicken said: "I nominated her because I felt she has taken on quite a lot, having to give her sister Emily so much attention, yet she's achieved a lot."

Emily, 9, has been diagnosed with Rett Syndrome which halted her development at 18 months so she does not speak, although she reacts enthusiastically to people she knows and in situations she enjoys, such as riding for the disabled.

Their mother added: "Laura is a confident and mature little girl who adapts well and lives life to the full. Having to give Emily so much care and attention has not held her back. She's doing well in school and she is in the school cross country team. She trains with the Geraldine Harris Academy and is a very good dancer, appearing in productions with Abergavenny Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society junior section and the Pantomime Company."

Laura said: "I love Emily lots and I always look after her.

"Last year when she was having fits I knew what to do because of my first aid training with the Guides."

The award scheme was organised by Valleys Radio and sponsored by supermarket company ASDA.