AN 'exceptional' Port teenager has been named as one of the most inspirational young people in the country after receiving award set up in memory of Princess Diana.

Anna Hemphill says she was overwhelmed to receive The Diana Award - a prestigious honour which recognises young people who have demonstrated their ability to inspire new generations to serve their communities.

The 18-year-old was nominated for the award by St Stephen's High School for raising over £12,000 for charity, including the Golden Jubilee Hospital where her mum Mary has received several life saving procedures.

Anna, who lives in Dougliehill Place with her mum Mary and dad Kenny, said: "I didn't know about the award until my head teacher Mrs Fanning took me into her office to tell me.

"It was so nice and I was quite taken aback."

Her mum Mary added: "Anna has raised over £12,000 for various charities including the British Heart Foundation, the Scottish Association for Children with Heart Disorders and the Golden Jubilee Hospital.

"We're so proud of her."

Anna, who has just finished sixth year at St Stephen’s, was just 10 when her mum was first admitted to hospital in 2011 to have aortic valve replacement surgery.

Six months later, Mary was back in hospital receiving a mechanical valve.

In 2012, she then had a pacemaker fitted before a further round of surgery three years ago.

It was a distressing and anxious time for young Anna, waiting around in the wards for news of her mum’s progress, and it inspired her to help other children and families.

Anna said: "I went through a really difficult time so I just want to help others who are going through the same thing.

“It’s also to say thank-you for all the amazing care the Golden Jubilee and all the heart charities give to the likes of my family.

“My friends and family, everyone at my school and the whole community really support me and I want them to know how grateful I am for that and for their generosity.”

Mary, who still receives treatment at the hospital, says Anna has coped incredibly well with her health problems.

She said: "Anna was only 10 when I had my first surgery, she's been through quite a lot.

"Obviously I've had quite a few surgeries and you meet a lot of people, so Anna wanted to help them.

"She donated hampers, iTunes vouchers and pyjamas, afternoon teas and Christmas dinners."

Modest Anna received her award at a special ceremony at the Scottish Parliament.

She said: "It was nice but this award is not just for me though

"I've had a lot of support from my best friend Eilidh Kennedy and my family have been great."

Anna and her family were also keen to thank Mark Dyer, a nurse at the Golden Jubilee Hospital for his 'tremendous support'.

She is currently volunteering at the summer playscheme at Craigmarloch School and after the summer she will either study nursing or an HND in additional support needs.

Her dad Kenny added: "We're very proud of Anna."