A YOUNG North Yorkshire estate agent has been recognised as one of the best in the country.

Kathryn Fawcett, 20, from JR Hopper and Co, in Leyburn, was one of four finalists in the Young Estate Agent of the Year competition, held in London.

Miss Fawcett, from Woodhall, Wensleydale, has only worked for the firm for two years.

However, she has already achieved NVQ levels two and three in residential estate agency.

She has also passed her technical awards set by the National Association of Estate Agents.

Brian Carlisle, owner of the firm, said Miss Fawcett had gained the qualifications in half the time it took many young people.

"At the same time, she has held down a job here negotiating on properties and showing people round houses, all to a very high standard," he said.

"She's not just an academic whiz - she's got a great personality, which, put together, means she is one of the young estate agents of the year."

The awards ceremony was held at the Hilton Hotel, in London's Park Lane.

The young estate agent said she was thrilled with the nomination.

She now plans to study for further technical awards and a diploma.