Student bus pass campaign wins James a Diana award

GRAMMAR schoolboy James Tapley, who successfully campaigned for Freedom Bus Passes for students, has been presented with a Diana Award in memory of the late Princess of Wales.

James, 16, received the award from Sir A1 Aynsley Green, Children’s Commissioner for England, at a ceremony at Barclays Commercial Bank at Canary Wharf.

Founded in 1999, the award gives recognition to young people aged between 12 and 18 who both make outstanding and selfless contributions to their communities and also demonstrate the qualities associated with Diana, Princess of Wales, compassion and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

Nominated by his school, James said he was very surprised when he was told he had been given the award.

James Tapley, who was presented with a Diana Award

James is now in his third year as a member of the Kent Youth County Council and his second as a member
of the Youth Parliament. He is about to attend a youth parliament conference in Canterbury.

It was in his role on the youth county council that he campaigned for the free bus passes for students, an initiative which was subsequently introduced.

Having just taken his GCSEs, James will be returning to Dover Grammar School in September to study history, English, art and business studies for A-level.

“I was surprised and very pleased to receive the Diana Award,” said James, who is also studying for his grade eight exams in saxophone and piano, and enjoys subaqua diving.

James automatically becomes a member of the Diana Alumni programme which provides award winners with the skills to develop to their full potential.