A STUDENTS' union president has joined Nelson Mandela, Sir Richard Attenborough and a host of other leading figures in gaining a fellowship.

Emily Fieran-Reed, 23, president of Durham Students' Union, has been awarded a fellowship of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA).

She was nominated for her community work, which has included organising campaigns for higher education funding, encouraging local pupils to go on to university, working with Prince's Trust volunteers to renovate wasteland and co-ordinating work to improve Durham City.

The award comes as part of the RSA's pledge to honour 100 young leaders over three years to celebrate the United Nations International Year of Volunteers.

Those chosen as young fellows are aged between 18 and 25 and have all made significant contributions to society or their local communities.

Award winners receive a small bursary and the opportunity to be mentored by prominent individuals or other RSA fellows.

They also have access to all facilities at the RSA's London base, and can attend events and lectures.

Miss Fieran-Reed, who lives in Gilesgate, but is originally from St Helen's, Merseyside, said: "I was absolutely over the moon to get the award.

"It's very prestigious and it's a great opportunity to continue my volunteering work.

"I'm hoping to develop my work with Victim Support to do more serious cases in the future."