THE inspirational efforts of an exceptional Darlington student have been recognised with a posthumous award.

Earlier this month, members of the community came together to recognise the bravery and dedication of 18-year-old Freja Nicholson who died from cancer last November.

The recent Best of Darlington Awards saw Miss Nicholson’s mother, Jennifer, collect the Chairman’s Award on behalf of her beloved daughter.

Representatives from the Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College nominated their much-missed student for the award, paying tribute to her exceptional academic achievements and tireless fundraising efforts.

Miss Nicholson worked throughout her illness to achieve outstanding A-Level results and a highly sought after place on a masters degree course, studying from her hospital bed until six days before she died.

She devoted much of her time to fundraising for the Teenage Cancer Trust and ward 94 of St James’ Hospital in Leeds, where she underwent treatment.

In August last year, she organised Freja Fest, raising more than £4,000 – a fundraising total that has soared to more than £20,000 since her death, with family and friends continuing to raise money in her name.

Jennifer Nicholson paid tribute to her remarkable daughter, saying she would have been surprised but happy with her well-deserved award.

She said: “Freja always had a smile on her face, even when she was ill I only ever saw her cry twice.

“At her high school ball she was awarded most kind and caring girl, which was a true description of her personality.

“She was quite shy but would gather her resources and do anything that was expected of her.

“She never cried about her situation, just smiled and got on with it.

“She was a force of strength in my darkest moments but we never talked about her dying as we never thought it would be this quick.

“She was and is the love of my life, along with her sister Lily, and I could not be more proud of the way she handled it.

“I miss her terribly but don’t ask why her – I’m thankful for every moment I was lucky enough to have her.

“Her memory will always live in my heart and her friends’ hearts too.”

A representative from QE college said Freja would be remembered “as one of the most positive, determined and engaging students we have ever taught”, adding: “She is an inspiration to us all.”

To donate in Freja’s memory, visit: justgiving.com/Nicky-Smith14.