A DIY enthusiast has been nominated for an award in recognition of her commitment to the community. Becky Allan, 23, of Kingston Vale, Royston, could be in with the chance of winning the Prince s Trust award, which helps young people get into work, with p

A DIY enthusiast has been nominated for an award in recognition of her commitment to the community.

Becky Allan, 23, of Kingston Vale, Royston, could be in with the chance of winning the Prince's Trust award, which helps young people get into work, with practical support.

Becky, who attended The Meridian School, approached the Trust after doing volunteer work with Time Bank in Royston.

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

When Becky returned to the UK she joined CEMENT, a project designed to address the issue of skills shortages in 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 Becky for one of its own awards in recognition of 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 a woman just to prove they can't do the job."

The Trust will be giving Becky a £4,000 grant, 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: "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: "We are very proud of Becky.

"She has a book full of certificates."

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).

Unfortunately, Becky cannot drive, and if she is to get her business off the ground, she will need to use her van.

She is, therefore, appealing to driving instructors to offer her free lessons and in return she is willing to carry out a range of DIY jobs for them.

Anyone who can help should call Becky on 07724071120.

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

PRINCE'S TRUST FACTFILE

# The Trust, set up by Prince Charles, 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 Prince's Trust courses are 40 per cent more likely to be more motivated for work and responsible for their well-being