A TEENAGER is celebrating after bringing a top prize home to Wales.

Bethan Owen, a karate instructor and young carer, was named the winner of the St David Award - in the category Young Person - during a special ceremony in the Senedd in Cardiff Bay on Thursday, March 21.

Bethan, 16, is a qualified karate instructor. At 12, she set up a not-for-profit club that caters for carers of all ages. She teaches classes in Rhyl.

Since the age of five, the sixth form pupil at Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan in Abergele, has been helping her father Garry care for her mother Julie who suffers from epilepsy.

The young carer was introduced to karate by her parents to give her a focus away from her responsibilities at home.

Speaking to the Journal, Bethan said: "Winning the award was a total shock for me. The other two finalists were so inspirational in their stories, I felt as almost didn't deserve it because their stories were so touching to me.

"I am so proud that I could bring the trophy back to the club to show what we have achieved together and I hope that my students will carry on with this journey with me." 

Garry, who watched his daughter collecting her award live on Facebook, said: "I gave up my place for Beth's sister Lisa to go as the event only allowed two guests.

"I watched it live. It was mad.

Rhyl Journal:

‘Everyday saints’ honoured at St David Awards 2019. Bethan front right

"She really wanted to get something that represented Wales. When they said her name, I couldn't believe it.

"I believe her mum and sister were crying.

"The award will take pride of place in the living room.

"She will be back later but she will be off straight to her karate class from the train station and then she is training this weekend.

"She doesn't stop."

Bethan, of Bodelwyddan, has already won a string of accolades. She has been honoured at the Pride of Sport Awards, received a Point of Light Award from Prime Minister Theresa May and a British Citizen Youth Award.

When she was nominated, Bethan told the Journal, she was "just so happy to be a finalist".

"Even if I don’t win, I’m proud to represent North Wales," she said.

The St David Awards, now in their sixth year, were created to recognise the great achievements, deeds and extraordinary contributions made by people from all walks of life across Wales.

Mark Drakeford, First Minister, said: “Our St David Award winners really are everyday saints – they’re the people in our communities who are working for change. They are the organisations supporting others to achieve their dreams and they’re the people who find themselves in unprecedented situations when they’re walking down the street.

"The St David Awards are a fantastic way to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional stories and inspiring talent we have across Wales. Each and every finalist embodies the essence of Wales – they are life-changers.”

Award categories included Bravery, Citizenship, Culture, Enterprise, Innovation, Science and Technology, International, Sport, Young Person and the First Minister’s Special Award.

A special programme about the St David Awards will be on ITV Wales at 10.40pm on Tuesday, April 2.