A Kind-hearted student was given a surprise gift by police as a thank you for her community work.

Joanie Stevens is well known among her fellow students and staff at The Samworth Church Academy, Mansfield, for doing all she can to support voluntary projects.

The 18-year-old also provides a voice for fellow students and young people in the wider community.

Delivering the surprise were PCSOs Amanda Parkes and Leah Morton, of the neighbourhood policing team.

Amanda said: “We received some donations from businesses that we could give back into the community, and Joanie was the first person we thought about.

“We have worked together recently on projects with young people in the area, and felt this was a small gesture to pay back for all the voluntary work she carries out.

“I was so impressed by her attitude to school, her community, and to the police in her role as youth commissioner for the police and crime commissioner.

“I could see us working with her in the future and it makes me a little emotional to think about how hard she works for others.”

The gift contained practical items to assist Joanie in her studies and community meetings, as well as fun things.

She said she was grateful for the gifts, but didn’t think she deserved thanks.

“Unlike many people I have a very supportive family,” Joanie added. “I know not everyone has that, and to be able to assist and support other young people to overcome obstacles, their difficulties, or problems associated with their personal circumstances seems to be the right thing to do.

“Everyone deserves a chance. I am grateful for the gifts, but very surprised.”

Hannah Crosby, deputy safeguarding lead at the academy, said: “I am not surprised by this, unlike Joanie! She massively downplays the things that she does, giving a voice to our students and young people on her home estate and in the wider community. She is absolutely fantastic!”