THE dedication of an Andover teenager has been recognised. On Monday she will receive a national award for helping her sick sister.

Rachel Paddy, aged 16, of Nutbane Close, devotes any spare time to helping her parents, Jayne and Mark, with her five-year-old sister Emily who suffers from gangliocytoma - a brain stem tumour and epilepsy.

Teachers at The Clere School nominated Rachel for a Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Award because of her ability to achieve outstanding grades while juggling responsibilities at home.

Rachel spends much of her spare time caring for Emily and has also taken part in a number of fundraising activities to raise money for other carers in similar situations.

Rachel, who is a member of Andover Young Carers, said: "Being able to give a helping hand at home makes me very happy."

Andover Young Carers project manager, Nicola Sage said: "Rachel is a very mature competent young woman who is well liked amongst the young carers. She is a pleasure to know."

Emily's condition is very unpredictable and night time can be very difficult.

"Sometimes she only sleeps for two hours.

"She doesn't like being on her own, so mum or me will lay with her," she said.

Doctors told Mr and Mrs Paddy that Emily would be unlikely to walk, talk and lead a healthy life.

But with the help of Rachel and the three other siblings, Craig, aged 13, Chris, aged 10 and Jessie, aged eight, Emily, who was diagnosed with the tumor at birth, has defied all odds.

Mark said: "We work well as a family team, so in my eyes, all the kids deserve a medal."

In the last couple of months Rachel's help was needed even more when her mother underwent two operations.

Mum Jayne said: "As I cannot do much Rachel has been remarkable.

"I am proud of her and the stuff she does with Emily." Dad, Mark added: "Rachel is a star."