AN "inspirational" young woman has earned a top community accolade for using her experience living on the streets to help others.

Bronwyn Wyper, known as Bronny, was recognised in the Young People’s Outstanding Service to the Community category at the Pride of Queens Cross Awards.

After leaving the care system and becoming homeless, she was supported by Queens Cross youth homelessness service for a number of years.

She continues to be involved with the association’s homelessness team, volunteers at community events and has also been appointed to the association’s board.

“Bronny is exceptional as she has not let her childhood experiences or becoming homeless hold her back. Using these experiences in a positive way to help others is truly inspirational,” said Queens Cross chief executive, Shona Stephen.

“We struggle to get diverse membership on our board so Bronny will give us a real insight into the issues facing our younger tenants which will be invaluable,” Stephen added.

The awards are designed to recognise outstanding achievements in the community and are open to all Queens Cross Housing Association tenants and staff.

The association received a record number of entries this year across seven categories, including awards for services to the community, health and well-being, customer service and environmental projects. The awards also recognised Queens Cross youth worker Charly McGlinchey for her work in building relationships between local young people and the association, which manages around 4300 properties in Glasgow.

“It is fitting that in this, the Scottish Government’s Year of the Young Person, we focus on what our youth have achieved in helping to build stronger, happier communities,” Stephen said.

In the last 12 months the association has also taken on two modern apprentices, two trade apprentices, three graduate trainees and two youth 12 month job placements.