A KEEN rower is making waves in the sporting world after winning an award.

Helen Blevins, 15, of Horden, was nominated by her PE teacher at Easington Community School for Easington District Sports Council's Junior Sportswoman of the Year award.

The talented teenager, who trains daily, was among a handful of local youngsters to be invited to a session with the British rowing squad.

She has also represented her school in netball, five-a-side football, athletics and cross country, and at the weekend came eighth in the national cross country championships.

She was delighted to receive the top sportswoman title.

"I didn't think I would win because there were lots of other people who played football for England and things like that," she said. "Rowing is my favourite sport and after university, I would like to be in the Olympic rowing team."

Irene Lavelle, the school's deputy head, said: "Everyone is incredibly proud of Helen, because she's also good at her academic work.

"She's got an extensive training programme yet she still manages to keep up to date with her work."

* Pupils at the school had another reason to celebrate yesterday after sending a cheque for £925 to Macmillan Cancer Relief. They raised the sum through the charity's Hold Your Tongue sponsored silence.