A young Bangor woman who turned her life around following a difficult childhood has been crowned winner in a prestigious royal awards ceremony.

Natalie Coffey had a difficult childhood as her family faced a campaign of threats and intimidation which forced them out of their home after her mother witnessed a crime. Bricks were regularly thrown through their windows. The move didn’t change things; others were informed and the harassment continued. Natalie became accustomed to moving around the living room on her hands and knees.

The 22-year-old's education and mental health suffered; she considered suicide, was prescribed anti-depressants, and was rushed to hospital more than once. Despite this, she achieved five GCSEs but was inevitably socially withdrawn, fearful and desperately lacking in confidence. An online search for help directed Natalie to The Prince’s Trust Fairbridge programme, a course that builds the confidence and motivation helped her to rebuild her life.

Natalie’s incredible achievements mean that she was one of just three people from across the UK to be chosen as a finalist for a royal award at The Prince's Trust and Samsung Celebrate Success Awards.

HRH The Prince of Wales was joined by a host of celebrities including actor Kevin Spacey, Simon Cowell and footballer Thierry Henry at the special awardswhich recognise young people who have overcome issues such as abuse, drug addiction, homelessness and depression.

Natalie won the HSBC Breakthrough Award, which recognises the progress of young people who have developed new skills to enable them to make positive steps in facing their challenges and stabilising their lives.

She said: “I can’t believe how far I’ve come since I started with The Prince’s Trust. I had absolutely no self confidence and couldn’t have even imagined myself meeting a whole new group of people and being able to talk to them all.

"I’m so much happier now than I’ve been in a long time and I actually feel like I’m getting somewhere with my life. Thank you so much to The Prince’s Trust for giving me the opportunity to turn my life around.”

Pictured: Bangor woman Natalie Coffey presented with top award from Simon Martin from award sponsors Samsung and actor Kevin Spacey