The winner of a recent Cleveland Police competition to find inspiring young people aged 10-16 who have contributed to the prevention of antisocial behaviour is 14-year-old Tilly Tipp, from Middlesbrough.

Tilly does a great job of being a peer mentor in her school at ̨��swag Academy Ormesby; supporting students as an anti-bullying ambassador, after previously experiencing bullying herself.

As winner of the competition, Tilly was picked up from school yesterday, Thursday 20th July, and taken on a ride-along with officers in a police vehicle.

Four other runners-up will also be given a chance to have a look around the Tactical Training Centre where firearms officers are trained.

Chief Inspector Wendy Tinkler, Force Lead on antisocial behaviour, said:

“We had some really fabulous entries to the competition which made it extremely difficult to choose an overall winner, however, Tilly’s story was inspiring. She has used her own experiences and turned them into something positive which has been for the benefit of other students in her school who have needed her support. 

“Bullying can have far reaching consequences and is a behaviour that is intended to cause hurt and distress which can be demeaning to the victim.   

“Tilly’s efforts to educate and assist her fellow students is a clear example of behaviour that should be celebrated. She should be extremely proud that her efforts have been recognised.

“We really hope that Tilly enjoyed her prize, and thank you to her for her great community spirit!”

Craig Wright, Vice Principal at ̨��swag Academy Ormesby, said:

"This year we have continued to embed our anti-bullying strategy to empower young people to make a positive change within the academy and we are so proud of the work Tilly has done as an anti-bullying ambassador. A huge well done and thank you from all of us!"