A TEENAGER says she is 'thrilled' to be named Fairlie's Young Citizen of the Year.

Niamh McGinty, 16, has lived all her life in the village, attended Fairlie Primary School then Largs Academy and is now studying in the hope of becoming a teacher.

The role model is training as a young leader in guiding, attached to 1st Fairlie Brownies, where she helps each Thursday evening.

She has helped at 'Sunday Funday' at Fairlie Parish Church and continues to be a junior helper there each month at Messy Church, as well as supporting in other areas of church life such as coffee mornings and other fundraisers.

Niamh is also a keen member of Largs Youth Amateur Operatic Society Choir and is involved with Fairlie Gala each year.

She has been one of nine young people chosen by Largs Academy to participate in the Malawi exchange trip next year.

Niamh, along with the others heading to Africa, have to raise money towards the trip. For this she has been baking and selling the produce at various venues, as well as recently putting on breakfast at church, managing to raise more than her target amount.

Niamh, who lives in Castlepark Gardens with parents Michael and Shirley, is pictured receiving her award.

Ann Tyler, who helps to organise the event, said: "Niamh is an enterprising young woman, caring and supportive of friends and family.

"She displays an talent for working with young people and hopes to go on to train as a primary teacher."

Speaking to the News, a delighted Niamh said: "I enjoy helping others, inside the village and out.

"It is great to be involved in the Messy Church at Fairlie. It is a good family environment where children and parents come together for arts and craft and it is very popular.

"At Largs Academy we have a partnership school in Malawi, and we have made good friends with children from the school, and we will be going out to see them in June and hope to strengthen our bond.

"I also helped out at the Largs Youth Amateur Operatic Society summer camp, and it is great being involved in the Guides.

"We have been helping out with the Brownies doing various activities, including visiting the Fairlie Community Garden.

"I was thrilled to receive the Young Citizen of the Year award at the Fairlie tree lighting ceremony - it is always a special evening.

"I am enjoying fifth year at Largs Academy and doing my highers this year. I particularly enjoy English and history.

"I am enjoying being in the new campus. It is a lot better in terms of surroundings and a good and positive learning environment."

Photo: John Keachie.