Exclusive by Alan Quick

A CREDITON teenager has been recognised as a Young Ambassador of the 21st Century by Lions International for her community service.

Beth Bowring (16), from Crediton, representing Crediton and District Lions Club, has been recognised with the South West of England region award, which includes, Devon, Cornwall, Avon and Somerset.

Beth is currently doing her A-Levels in law, sociology and English literature at Exeter College.

She is hoping to go to University to get a degree in law so that she can become a barrister.

When she was 12 she set up a “Facebook” page called “Improvements on Newcombes Meadow”.

She explained: “The aim of the page was to get all new play equipment in the play area in Newcombes Meadow.”

Crediton Lion Eric Parkes, president, said that Beth attended council meetings and pushed for the new equipment to be installed.

Her campaign was taken up and the play area now has many new pieces of play equipment.

Beth added: “The group which was formed to get all the new play equipment has since won a “Britain in Bloom - It’s Your Neighbourhood” outstanding award twice.

“For the last three years I have volunteered at Crediton Guides on Tuesday nights.

“With the Guides I run games and activities as well as working co-operatively as part of a team.

“I have recently completed my Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award with Queen Elizabeth’s School and I am currently working towards my Silver Award.

“My main interest is in documentary photography as it is all natural and unplanned.

“This hobby developed from taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.”

Beth was presented with the Peter Drew Cup, presented by the Tiverton Lions Club, at a ceremony held at the end of November.

As part of her prize, Beth wins a £100 personal award and a £500 bursary to spend as she chooses.

Beth said she intends to use the £500 to pay for a day out or activity for some Crediton young people to do an activity or have a day out in the summer.

Beth, who attended both Hayward’s Primary School and Queen Elizabeth’s in Crediton, will now go forward to the National final in February at Dudley, Birmingham.

She could be eligible for a further bursary and recognition if she wins the National final and would then proceed to the European final.

Beth said she was “honoured” to have won the SW region award.