AN "exceptional" Darlington pupil has been presented with a school's first-ever achievement award.

Natasha Levy, 11, is the first Red Hall Primary School pupil to be given the Vernon Malcolm Cup.

The cup, which is sponsored by Malcolm Engineering, is presented to pupils who have displayed outstanding achievement.

Natasha, who has now left the school, won the award not only because of her academic and sporting prowess, but also for the maturity she has shown throughout her years at Red Hall Primary.

Headteacher Peter Boddy said Natasha was the unanimous choice of staff at the school.

"Natasha has been a fantastic ambassador for the school, either through her sporting exploits or because of her academic work," he said.

"She has never been a bother to anyone and is such a happy and exceptional child."

At Wednesday's awards ceremony, certificates were also presented to pupils who had 100 per cent attendance during the year.

There were also gold medals for good behaviour, and certificates for other achievements handed out.