A SEA cadet has been recognised for her bravery and quick thinking after she saved a girl who was choking.

Molly Fraser, from Colchester, was among 24 inspirational youngsters across the UK to win a medal at this year’s British Citizen Youth Awards.

The award recognises those under the age of 16 who positively impact others.

Molly, 15, collected her prize at the Palace of Westminster last Thursday.

The teenager, who also plays under 15s rugby for Essex, was walking with her friend at Colchester Rugby Club during the summer when she noticed someone was unconscious.

She rushed over and cleared the girl’s airway, performed CPR and called for an ambulance, before placing the unconscious teenager in the recovery position.

Her skills were praised by paramedics who said her actions saved the girl’s life.

Now campaigning for first aid training to be included in the school curriculum, Molly said: "If it wasn’t for Colchester Sea Cadets I wouldn’t have known what to do.

"They have taught me a range of skills from social skills – making friends and boosting my confidence, to academic and practical skills such as learning how to use communication and information systems in line with computer science that I’m studying at school.

"I think it’s so important that first aid becomes a basic and compulsory skill. If everyone had that knowledge so many more lives could be saved. I never expected to need to use first aid but you never know when an emergency might happen."

Molly received her medal from Ashley Banjo, lead dancer of Diversity, who won the third series of Britain’s Got Talent.

Ashley said people like Molly were inspirational.

The awards are in association with Specsavers, and Nick Hagan, store director of Specsavers Colchester, said it is always uplifting to hear about the amazing and selfless acts performed by youngsters in the community.

He said: "Whether it be raising money for charity or helping those in need, we want to raise awareness of these achievements and inspire the next generation of children to make a similar positive impact on society."