Emma Anderson, 18, from North Close, South Shields, has been a member of 324 Squadron (South Shields) Air Training Corps (ATC) for four years.

She is a cadet flight sergeant at present and is due to be interviewed by the warrant officers board.

Dad Billy said she has inspired other young people to try out cadets and enjoy some of the same experiences she has.

He has put her forward for Role Model of the Year.

"Emma has much responsibility for probationers, drill and discipline, and delivers lectures in aviation studies to other cadets," he said.

"She is also very active in the recruitment of others and is happy to share her experiences with those considering joining the organisation.

"In this day and age, where kids are easily overlooked for the good work that they do, I am proud just to be writing of the achievements of one of my three successful daughters."

Emma was named as the first ever Mayor of South Tyneside's cadet this year and is one of the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear's cadets.

She is the only cadet in North East England selected to represent the Northumberland and Durham wing of the ATC at its international camp to Australia in July.

The A-level student at South Tyneside College has also gained a BTEC in Uniformed Services in her spare time and is due to take up a gliding scholarship in the summer, to gain her gliding licence.

She is also in the final stages of achieving her gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Emma, a former Harton Technology College pupil, said: "I am very excited about all of these things.

"By being seen to achieve these things, I am showing to other youngsters that ordinary boys and girls with an interest in something can do things that would never normally be possible."

•The Pride of South Tyneside Awards, now in their sixth year, are organised by the Gazette, South Tyneside Council and the Customs House.

Ten awards are up for grabs – Carer of the Year, Community Group of the Year, Greener South Tyneside, Sporting Excellence, Top Achiever, Child of Courage, Good Friend/Neighbour, Role Model of the Year, Young Performer(s) of the Year and a Judges' Special Award.

The closing date has now passed for nominations.

The awards ceremony will take place at the Customs House on Thursday, July 10.

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