»An 18-year-old who set up a youth group for disabled people after helping her own autistic brother could be our Young Citizen winner.

Grace Davies, a Year 13 student at The Ursuline Academy, Morland Road, Ilford, has given up her time for the last three years to help run the Truecolours Project.

The club meets weekly in the Mildmay Community Centre, Albert Road, Ilford and gives young people, both with and without special needs, a place to hang out together, play computer games and listen to music.

Thoughtful Grace volunteered at play schemes from a young age to support her older brother Hugh, who is now 23, and she is in the running for the Recorder/Redbridge Rotary Club award, sponsored by The Exchange Ilford shopping centre.

Grace said Truecolours is important in helping young disabled people, aged 14 to 21, in their transition to adult life.

She said: “When my brother was between 16 and 20, there was nothing really.

“If young disabled people don’t have the sociable side, somewhere outside of the school or home environment, it’s hard for them to develop socially.”

Chris Merritt, Redbridge Forum’s director who nominated Grace, said: “She is exceptional and is always looking to find ways to help without being asked. “Grace always gives 110 per cent and is a true asset.”

For more information about Truecolours, visit www.redbridgeforum.co.uk.