Lauren’s our Citizen of the Year

St John’s Primary pupil Lauren was chosen by provost Alastair Carmichael for her tireless charity efforts and personal triumphs — all at the tender age of nine.

The award recognises the area’s unsung heroes, and provost Carmichael commented: “This year feels extra special because our Citizen of the Year is someone who has shown an incredible spirit her whole life.

“In the last year Lauren Cosgrove has set up her own charity, dedicated her spare time to organising fundraising events and even had her hair cut off to donate to the Little Princess Trust.”

Lauren (9) was born with incurable short bowel syndrome and carries three machines with her every day in backpacks, as well as making countless visits to the sick kids hospital in Yorkhill.

Her charity, Lauren’s Lifelines, was set up to raise money for others like her, and has raised almost £16,000 so far.

Lauren received her award at council chambers, and said: “I’m excited and happy and will tell my friends all about it tomorrow.

“It is a big surprise for me that everyone thinks I have done well, because I’m just being myself.”