A PROUD mum has paid tribute to her teenage daughter for the strength she gave the family following a devastating bereavement.

Fourteen-year-old Megan Cooper from Ulverston has been put forward for the Young Citizen Award in this year's Heart of Ulverston Awards.

Megan's mum Carol Finley, 39, said her daughter has grown into an inspirational young woman following such heartbreak at such a young age.

Megan was only nine when her dad Paul died, aged only 38. Ms Finley describing her daughter as a "daddy's girl" through and through; she had no idea how such a young girl would cope with such a loss.

Her musically minded daughter decided to channel her grief into writing poetry and composing songs.

Ms Finley said: "She kept putting words to songs, showing them in her guitar classes at Croftlands Junior School."

That creative talent which sprung out of such tragedy led to great success for Megan and her schoolmates. A band, Pesky, was formed and their music made it to the ears of millions after being picked up by DJs at BBC Radio 1.

Ms Finley said Megan's drive to carry on was inspired by her dad. She said: "Her dad was such a character, in a sad time he'd always try to make a laugh and turn it around. He said to Megan 'always work hard, keep busy and just laugh'."

That strong work ethic has led Megan to becoming a keen member of her local squadron of Air Cadets in Ulverston.

Since joining up eight months ago, she has become passionate about the cadets, and has started to consider a career with the RAF.

Ms Finley says her daughter's enthusiasm is starting to rub off on her younger brothers Zack, 11, and Tommy, five.

She said: "My little lad is 11 now, he's always saying to Megan when can he join up for Air Cadets."

Ms Finley said she couldn't be more proud of her daughter, for the support she gives to the family and the strong community-minded girl she has grown into.

She said: "We're a tight family unit, we're very protective of each other. She helps me take care of her brothers, it makes me very proud to have such a great daughter. I'm doing quite a good job as a mum."

This year the Heart of Ulverston Awards are celebrating their fifth year. They would be nothing without your help, support and nominations.

If you've been inspired to nominate someone for a Heart of Ulverston award, take five minutes and fill out the nomination form below.

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