Ava Walsh, an inspirational 17-year-old from Waterford is encouraging young people from across Waterford to enter the Garda Youth Awards.

Last year, Ava won the Special Achievement award, before going on to win the overall Pat Noctor award in City Hall.

The awards seek to celebrate and recognise inspirational young people from across the county.

Last year this included student-led school initiatives, acts of bravery, acts of kindness, and of community and sporting spirit.

Ava is open about her journey through grief following the death of her beloved father when she was 12 years of age.

She told Ollie and Dymphna that the Garda Youth Awards win was a surprise and an extraordinary opportunity.