Bristol teenage crimefighter sets her sights on career in the police

A teenager praised by the Prime Minister for her work helping to fight crime in Henbury has got her heart set on joining the police.

Amy Hillier became the youngest ever overall winner of the Justice Shield at the National Justice Awards in London last month.

The 16-year-old from Southmead was given the honour in recognition of her commitment to diverting young people away from crime, anti social behaviour and alcohol and drug abuse. She was also joint winner of the Engaging Communities Award.

Amy said: "Going to the awards in London was amazing. I didn't think I would get nominated, never mind win. When they read my name out for the main award I apparently just sat there for five seconds because I couldn't take it in."

After her award, PM Gordon Brown said: "I want to pay tribute to teenage volunteer Amy Hillier, who won the top award, the Justice Shield, for her work in Bristol to encourage young people away from crime, anti social behaviour and alcohol and drug misuse."

Now Amy is focussing on joining the police as soon as possible with her ultimate goal becoming a mounted officer, who patrol on horseback.

After leaving Henbury school, where Amy was head girl, she is studying a public service course at Filton College where she learns in depth about the police and armed forces.

Amy said: "You can join up from 18 and a half and as soon as I can, I will be applying. I started working with PC Nick Merrick when I was 11 and immediately knew it was something I wanted to do. My ultimate aim is to be a mounted officer."

It was while she worked with PC Merrick that Amy became part of a steering group that sought to tackle the lack of trust between young and older members of the community.

"My aim has been to get kids off the streets by encouraging them to go to after school clubs and partake in activities," she said.

"We organised a trip to Ben Nevis and everybody who went had to raise the money by car washing, packing bags or some activity. There was great feedback from that trip and I think it gave a lot of people confidence and made them realise they do have something to offer.

"We hear a lot about the bad things in Henbury but there is a lot of good, too. I would encourage people to get involved and see what is on offer at things like after school clubs."

Amy lives with her mum and dad, Sue and Paul, sister Emily, 18, and brother Adam, 11.

Sue said: "I am over the moon. I am so glad that she has turned out the way she has."

PC Merrick, who has mentored Amy, said: "Amy has a very strong sense of right and wrong. She would sometimes get a lot of abuse for what she did but she stood up for what she believed and that has to be commended.

"I am incredibly proud of what she has achieved and hope it sets her up for the future."