THERE is some good news to start the New Year, a former Crediton school student, Laura Coryton, has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List for services to charitable campaigning.

Laura attended Queen Elizabeth’s School before studying at Goldsmiths, University of London, and the University of Oxford.

Whilst at Goldsmiths she started the campaign to cut taxes on period products. This began with an online petition on Change.org and which grew to amass thousands of signatures and global recognition. 

Laura said: “My teachers and friends at QE taught me many lifelong skills central to campaigning, including creativity, perseverance, the importance of staying curious and standing up for what you believe in.

“They gave me the confidence I needed to embrace failure rather than fear it. As a result, I’ve been able to make a larger positive impact than I ever imagined.”

QE School said it was fabulous recognition of working tirelessly on a campaign that she feels so passionately about.

A QE spokesperson said: “We are delighted for Laura. It is a great example of what determination and tenacity can achieve.”