A DIY enthusiast from Royston has been nominated for an award which recognises her commitment to the community. Becky Allan, 23, of Kingston Vale, could be in with the chance of winning the Princes Trust award which helps young people get their lives work

A DIY enthusiast from Royston has been nominated for an award which recognises her commitment to the community.

Becky Allan, 23, of Kingston Vale, could be in with the chance of winning the Princes Trust award which helps young people get their lives working through practical support such as training.

Becky approached the Trust after doing volunteer work with Time Bank in Royston.

The Trust then sent her to Portugal to help with an orphanage for two weeks.

When Becky returned to the UK she joined CEMENT, a project designed to address the issue of skills shortages within the construction industry.

CEMENT was set up to help people who find it hard to get work because of past problems and the project has nominated her for an award for her dedication and commitment.

Becky is currently doing work as a painter and decorator through the project because of her passion for the building trade.

She said: "It can be a difficult industry to work in because a lot of men will employ you just to prove you can't do the job."

The Trust will be awarding Becky with £4,000 which will enable her to buy a van, providing she carries out various asessments.

"The van will mean that in four months time I will be able to start to pay myself and make a name for myself in the building industry," she said.

Becky also hopes to become a supervisor with CEMENT and help other people trying to break into the industry.

She said: "Noone will teach you if you have convictions in trade because they are concerned you'll run away with their money

"It's unfair because you could have just done something minor so I want to give people a break."

Becky puts her success down to Time Bank.

She said: "I was homeless in Devon for four years and when I came back from Royston I was going through a difficult time but Time Bank brought me out of myself and got me out into the real world again."

Kate Fraser of Time Bank said: "Time Bank is very proud of Becky.

"Becky's gone from not doing much, to absolutely doing lots. She has a book full of certificates and we're really proud of her."

Time Bank has also nominated Becky for the Young People of the Year Award with the results being announced at an awards ceremony tomorrow evening (Friday).

Unfortunatley Becky cannot drive so if she is to get her business off the ground she will need to use her van. She is, therefore, appealing to local driving instructors to offer her free lessons and in return she is willing to carry out a range of DIY jobs for them.

If anyone can help call Becky on 07724071120.

For more information about the Princes Trust call www.princes-trust.ork.uk

FACT FILE

* The Trust supported 41,680 young people last year including 12,150 entrepreneurs through business start-up and support

* The Trust celebrated its 30th birthday this year

* Those who take part in Princes Trust courses are 40 per cent more likely to be more motivated for work and responsible for their well-being