‘Inspirational’ Ranby pupil Lauren in awards ceremony final

Lauren Hall, 17, will go head to head with six other inspirational youngsters from across the county, as part of Notts County Council’s annual 4Uth awards ceremony.

Lauren, who was nominated by teacher Maria Hall, suffered a head injury in Year 10 following a sudden collapse which resulted in partial vision, and she was also diagnosed with Coeliac disease which led to blood sugar problems.

Despite a very weak auto immune system she finished her GCSEs with some excellent results and joined Retford Post 16 to do her A levels.

Alongside her studies she took part in other activities such as trampolining - reaching Nationals and coming sixth - as well as coaching it and tutoring street dance.

She was forced to give up sport after collapsing in March after discovering she had heart related problems.

But despite this huge set-back, she continues to coach from the sidelines as a sports leader for the district council alongside her studies and is looking to the future positively.

Maria said Lauren is a ‘truly inspirational’ girl whose efforts deserve to be recognised.

“She has the most beautiful smile and despite it fading on occasions Lauren has firmly reinstated it of late through her gritty determination, boundless energy and new career focus,” she said.

Notts County and Bassetlaw councillor Alan Rhodes will feature as one of seven judges on the panel at the ceremony, to be held at County Hall.

Council leader Coun Kay Cutts will present the winner of the county-wide award with a trophy and £250 in High Street vouchers.

The district winners will also be presented with trophies at the ceremony.

Coun Cutts said they have been ‘hugely impressed’ by the quality of nominations this year.

““The district winners have proved to be hugely inspirational with significant progress in their personal development and their achievements,” she said.

“We are looking forward to celebrating with them at the final on Friday evening at what promises to be a memorable occasion.”