A PENARTH schoolgirl has won a national award for her work tackling bullying.

Alivia Williamson, 13, won a highly commended youth ambassador award from the charity Bullies Out.

The Year Nine Stanwell School pupil Alivia first got involved with the charity when she was aged 11, through Glamorgan Voluntary Service.

She was inspired to help others and began organising boot sales, cake sales and collection boxes to raise funds in the name of ending what she called “An issue that needs to be tackled”.

Her mother Jane Williamson said: “I am so proud of Alivia.

“She has done it off her own back which is quite something for someone of her years.

“She wanted to help make a difference and make people aware.

“She is strong girl and it is such a proud moment as she is really making a difference.”

Ms Williamson also said Alivia’s grandmother is disabled and her brothers have been bullied at school, so she has become accustomed to helping people and standing up for them.

Alivia was handed her award at a ceremony in Cardiff on Saturday by rugby referee Nigel Owens.

She said: “It is really nice to be recognised because it makes me feel important.

“I get to stand up for people who may not be able to stand up for themselves.

“Bullying is still an issue that needs to be tackled.

“It is great to inspire others to get involved.”

She also said that Bullies Out is always looking for children aged 11 and above to get involved.

For more information, visit bulliesout.com