A GREENOCK student has proved she is the creme de la creme after winning a top award for French.

Aimee Jewell, 18, was awarded the Mary G Ross prize in her first year at Glasgow University.

As part of the award she received just over £200 share of the overall prize which is divided amongst the winners.

Aimee, who works part-time at Bagatelle Care Home, said: "I was completely in shock when I received the email to say I’d won.

"It isn’t very common for first year students to win things - you’re so early on in your academic career.

"The thought of winning anything at Uni hadn’t even crossed my mind!

"I have to say, I had a wee cry - I just couldn’t believe it!

"I was working at my part-time job when I found out and was allowed to run off and give my mum and dad a phone to tell them the news - I was ecstatic."

Aimee, a former pupil of Cedars School of Excellence, is studying French and business.

Her award was based on her excellent performance in spoken French and performance in an essay based on the study of French literature.

The essay was based on the famous novel Candide by 18th century writer Voltaire.

Aimee said: "I achieved a pretty average mark in my spoken French exam, but very high marks in my essays on French literature and culture which swayed it I think.

"It’s been so lovely how everybody has been so pleased for me - especially my former teachers from Cedars School who were delighted on hearing the news.

"I have much to thank them for - they really invested their time and energy into helping me with essay writing and my French teacher inspired me to take the language further."

Alison Speirs, retiring head at Cedars, said: "We are delighted with this award Aimee has won.

"She was head girl and also a dux medallist at the school.

"It is very pleasing that she has replicated her success with us in a much wider and higher arena."