A GROUP of students from a Darwen high school who have shown 'real commitment and passion' have won a prestigious award.

The Shine Group was set up at Darwen Vale High School in response to a group of girls who wanted to discuss issues surrounding domestic violence, self esteem, body image and self-perception.

The group worked on researching these issues from years seven to 11 working with the Wish charity to look into how women are portrayed in the media and what is healthy and unhealthy in relationships before passing on their findings to more year seven groups.

India Adcroft, Devon Ormerod-Banks, Abbie Smith and Baish Nicoll are now in year 11 and have gone on to win the Slyncs Young Campaigners of the Year Award, which recognised their achievement in passionately campaigning and bringing about change.

Acting principal David Hallam said he was delighted with that the group had acheived.

He said: "We are immensely proud of what the SHINE group have achieved for themselves. They have shown a real commitment and passion for something that they believe in. It’s been a joy to see them and those around them develop into resilient young people."

The girls, who were named as Shine ambassadors in school, were also invited to share a few comments with the National Women's Aid Conference where their views were heard on the experience they have had in engaging young people and flying the flag for Women's Aid in Lancashire.

They also performed a play written by Wish for their peers in assemblies, and then later had the opportunity to be a part of the Heart Conference at King George's Hall.

Slyncs stands for strengthening links between the youth and networks, communities and specialists and focuses on giving young people the opportunity to be heard and learn new skills.

The Young Campaigners of the Year Award celebrates the achievement of people who have campaigned on an issue 'passionately' and have brought about change as a result of their hard work.