Brave Amber Horton was hailed a hero after jumping into the sea last summer to rescue five-year-old Kieran Martin from drowning.

So when the time came for residents in Fareham to nominate their young citizens of the year, it seemed only right that her name was put forward.

The modest eight-year-old has now been awarded Fareham's Young Person of the Year award for her quick actions.

Amid cheers and applause she nervously took the stage at yesterday's mayor-making ceremony at Ferneham Hall to collect her medal.

'It's been very exciting but I've been very nervous about getting the award,' said Amber, of Ransome Close, Titchfield.

'I don't think I was brave really, I just wanted to help Kieran.'

Amber's act of bravery happened last August when her family and family friends were enjoying a day by the sea at Lee-on-the-Solent.

Disaster struck when Kieran Martin slipped off the rocks and fell into the water.

Without a thought for herself, and having only learnt how to swim two weeks before, Amber jumped into the water.

Using every ounce of her strength, she pulled her friend to the surface and dragged him back to the shore.

Everyone was amazed at her bravery, especially mum Dee Horton, 38.

She said: 'I still can't believe she did it. She really deserves this award, she was very brave that day and we are very proud of her.

'And one day she might really understand how important her actions were.'

Another young winner was 16-year-old Micah King who also won a Young Person of the Year award for being a carer to his younger autistic brother, and devoting his time to the Let Us Play scheme for disabled youngsters at St Francis School, in Fareham.

He said: 'I was shocked about getting the award. I didn't even know I'd been nominated – my parents kept it quiet.

'I'm very pleased to have received it, even though I think there are many youngsters out there who do just the same as me.'