Rustington student raises awareness of malaria

Georgian Garden's Natalie Cleverly, nine, entered a Malaria Awareness Campaign and National Geographic Kids magazine competition, to design a sticker warning of the dangers of the disease.

Her sticker was judged the best in the south east, and she is now representing the area as one of 11 finalists, and her desuign has now been put to the public vote.

Natalie said she was surprised about being named a finalist in such a big competition.

"I was so excited to hear that my sticker is one of the finalists. I worked really hard and hope everyone in the south east will support me."

Children's television presenter Steve Backshall has been working with the awareness campaign.

"With the increase in affordable, long-haul travel, more UK families are travelling further afield and it is becoming quite normal to visit exotic locations where there might be a malaria risk.

"For this reason, it has never been more important that the whole family is aware of the risks and more importantly, the ways to protect themselves, when travelling abroad."

To vote for Natalie's sticker, go to www.malariahotspots.co.uk before April 30.

The winner will be announced on May 7.