An 11-year-old from Norfolk who led a charity to create its first wig from Afro hair has been nominated in the Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards 2021.

Since 2006, the Little Princess Trust has been making wigs from donated hair for children and young people who have lost their own, but the trust said it was previously unable to make ones using Afro hair.

Inspired by a friend in need, Carly Gorton, then 10, contacted the Little Princess Trust wanting to shave and donate her hair.

She was told it was not possible, but Carly, from Southburgh, near Hingham, wasn't deterred, believing young people should have wigs to match their natural hair.

She worked with wigmaker Cynthia Stroud, who managed to make her hair into a wig.

Carly's determination led to the trust working with Ms Stroud to research a new manufacturing technique for this style of hair, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive offering.

Carly's dad, Mark Gorton, said: "The whole thing is so trailblazing. She wouldn't take no for an answer, she was very determined in her efforts to get this through and she has set the way going forward now.

"People who now receive a wig from Afro hair may not give it a second thought, but without [her] efforts, we would still be in the same situation where they wouldn't be able to get one. It is a big thing to the individuals.

"She felt sad because she felt as though her hair was not good enough."

Mr Gorton said, with media attention focusing on his daughter after her efforts, she "took it in her stride, she just got on with it, she didn't get nervous, or forget what to say. She was incredible."

Do you know a community star who should be celebrated at this year's Star of Norfolk and Waveney Awards? Nominate them by filling in the form below.

Entries close on Thursday, November 7 and the finalists will be announced on Tuesday, November 23.

Keep up to date with all the latest news from the Hopkins Homes-sponsored Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards 2021 at edp24.co.uk/stars.

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