A young judo coach whose condition causes crippling back and joint pain has scooped a highly coveted national award.

Cobham Hall former head girl Stephanie Allen was presented with The Diana Award - which recognises young people who create positive social change - earlier this month.

The 22-year-old was born with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and scoliosis of the spine, a condition she shares with another royal, Princess Eugenie.

But Stephanie hasn't let anything stop her from excelling in all areas of her chosen career path and work volunteering as a judo coach.

The former Gravesend boarding school pupil, who now lives in Wales, has been using her time away from the mat to inspire and support others.

She works as a child protection officer for "Adaptive Judo" which encourages and supports people with disabilities in the sport.

Despite scooping the coveted national award the judo instructor remains well grounded and paid tribute to the role her education played in her development.

“My time at Cobham Hall 100% helped me become who I am today,” she said.

“Both the experiences in school and going to the Round Square Conference in Singapore has had an enormous impact on the development of who I am today.

"I have always volunteered and tried to make a difference, but Cobham opened opportunity and doors for me to be able to expand on this.”

Stephanie is passionate about raising awareness and fundraising for both children in Wales and internationally.

She is hoping to make an even bigger impact still, and is currently working towards a masters degree in special educational needs and additional learning needs.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend