A kind-hearted pupil at Monmouth School for Girls made earrings out of recycled paper, in support of a close friend, who is a diabetic.

Laura Simmons, from Year 11, admires the commitment of her friend, who lives life to the full despite the problems that diabetes can pose. The 15-year-old sold around 100 pairs of earrings to fellow pupils and staff at the school. "During the lockdown earlier this year, I decided to make earrings, as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and then sell them to sell to raise funds for Diabetes UK," explained Laura, a former pupil at Cross Ash Primary School. "I shared my plans with Mr Sean McCluskey in DT and he kindly agreed to mentor and support my initiative."She added: "A close friend is a Type 1 diabetic and every day can bring her a different challenge."I admire her commitment to living life to the full despite the complexities that diabetes can bring. "So many families are affected by this disease, it is estimated that over four million people are living with diabetes in the UK. As well as supporting those people living with diabetes, the charity is funding research that may one day lead to a cure."Laura thanked all the staff and pupils at Monmouth School for Girls who bought the earrings and supported her efforts, which have raised £270.70 for Diabetes UK.