A seven-year-old who fled poverty in Albania has turned counsellor to help other refugees.

Esmeralda Ndregioni came to Britain with her parents, Bukurie and Nazmi, and 13-year-old brother, Sjmir, unable to speak a word of English.

The family found a home in North Tyneside and, despite the language barrier, Alda - as she is known - started school last September.

Just over a year after her flight from persecution in the conflict-torn Balkans, not only does she speak English fluently, she also helps to look after other asylum-seeking children.

She acts as interpreter for teachers at Battle Hill Primary School and is a "school buddy" for fellow pupils who need someone to talk to.

Yesterday, she won the regional heat of Tesco's Every Little Helps Award for her remarkable progress and contribution at the school.

Headteacher Kevin Arthur, who nominated her for the award, said: "Esmeralda is a remarkable pupil.