NEVER let it be said that the youth of today do not care.

For teenager Aamna Alam’s compassion for those less fortunate than her has earned her a Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award for Young People.

The 16-year-old Essa Academy pupil, described as an inspirational role model by her school, which put her forward for the award, has raised money for Bolton Hospice, victims of the Pakistani floods, the Burma Cyclone and the Haiti earthquake.

She has taken part in the Mayor’s Mile and as part of Bolton Youth Council has helped shaped local policies on crime and transport.

Aamna, who is head girl, has worked with Bolton Asian Elders and mentored young people in the Bolton Interfaith young ambassadors group.

Aamna has also squeezed some time in to volunteer at Harvey's Kids Club as a supervisor.

At school, she is involved in the plans for the new Essa Academy building.

She said: “I am very much honoured and privileged to receive this prestigious award. I am grateful to all my friends and many people who always help and support me.”

Aamna is one of just 1,600 youths from across the country to have received the award in the latest round.

Headteacher Showk Badat said: “We at Essa Academy are extremely proud of Aamna. This award is fully deserved and will encourage her to continue to support others selflessly. She will inspire others in the process. Aamna is honoured to receive such a fantastic award.”

Maggie Turner OBE and chief executive of the Diana Award, said: “This highly prestigious award gives young people of all abilities, circumstances and cultures, recognition at a time when their life choices are still to be made, enabling them to make a real positive difference to their communities.

“As individuals, award holders change lives, but as a group or community entrepreneurs, they have the power and ambition to build the cohesive society in which we would like to live.”

Chan Parmar, from Interfaith Council said: “Aamna is a wonderful role model.

Always caring, respectful, kind and committed to working with everyone. I am proud of her and grateful she belongs to our group.”