AN 18-year-old who has worked as a volunteer assistant at a Malvern school has been named as Britain's outstanding student of the year.

Mark Szortowski, who overcame bereavement and ill-health to win the award, impressed judges of the Edexcel competition with his commitment to the community.

Mr Szortowski, who wants to be a teacher, logged 700 hours as a volunteer assistant at the Wyche CE Primary School in Malvern, while studying at Worcester College of Technology.

He also had to deal with the death from cancer of his mother, Hilary, two years ago and his own dyspraxia, a condition affecting balance and dexterity.

The celebrity judging panel included mountaineer Bear Grylls who said: "Mark will go on to make an exceptional difference. He's an outstanding role model to others and he would make the best teacher."

Mr Szortowski, of Browning Road, Ledbury, wins £5,000 to spend on his education, with another £5,000 going to his college, where he gained distinction in his National Diploma in public service.

"Mark is an extremely committed and highly motivated student who constantly advises and guides less able students," said tutor Pat Lovell.

"I'm sure he will obtain the qualification he so richly deserves."

Mr Szortowski said he was surprised to have been chosen for the award.

"I worked hard at college and enjoyed my studies and this is a great way to end my BTEC course," he said.

Mr Szortowski is a volunteer for the Ledbury branch of the Red Cross.

He also runs a youth club at Gorsley Baptist Church.

He also look after his grandparents and his younger brother and sister, driving them to school in Hereford and back each day.

Two months ago, Mr Szortowski won Edexcel's national vocational achievement award, which led to the present award.