A former Braintree schoolgirl has been handed a national award for her contribution to science communication.

Helen Turner, now principal clinical scientist at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, was presented with the Furness Prize for Science Communication by the Royal College of Pathologists in London.

The accolade, awarded annually, was presented to the former Alec Hunter Humanities College and Great Bradfords Junior School pupil, 32, for her work in increasing public awareness of pathology - the study and diagnosis of disease.

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