Student of the year prize for schoolgirl who beat bullies

Lindsay McGlone struggled during her first year at secondary school and said she was bullied because of her weight which made her self-conscious and reluctant to take part in PE and sports lessons.

But since she was taken under the wing of world number one inline skater Jenna Downing, the 15-year-old said her confidence had been boosted and she is now involved in a number of activities.

Lindsay was one of 13 girls at Balby Carr Community College in Doncaster to take part in the Living For Sport scheme, which is sponsored by satellite television channel Sky Sports.

The project saw her take up umpiring duties and lead her peers during PE lessons.

She was presented with the Yorkshire and Humber Student of the Year Award by Olympic sprinter and Sports for Living ambassador Darren Campbell at a ceremony at Wembley Stadium last week.

Natasha Pearson, the PE Teacher at Balby Carr Community College, who nominated the teenager said: “Lindsay truly flourished through Living for Sport.

“She has taken everything in her stride and adopted a positive ‘can do’ attitude.

“The project has seen her take on so many challenges which have not only improved her health and fitness but also been an immense boost to her confidence.

“The transformation that Lindsay has undergone through taking part in the project is truly fantastic.”