Emma Honey, 24, from Bedwas near Caerphilly, won the Prince's Trust Young Achiever category.

Emma Honey is a remarkable young woman who has proved that the most appalling difficulties can be overcome

Prince Charles

Ms Honey, whose previous addiction led to a jail sentence for credit card fraud, is now working with young people.

She was honoured at a star-studded ceremony at the Hilton hotel in London and was singled out for praise by the charity's founder, Prince Charles.

Just 18 months ago Ms Honey was battling a ten-year drug addiction that had led to a life of crime.

But she was determined to fight back and be a good mother for her son, Ben.

After a drug rehailitation course she won support from the Prince's Trust.

Praise from Prince Charles

Having turned around her heroin addiction and criminal past, she is working for the Prince's Trust, helping other young people turn their lives around.

She said: "I've got a buzz getting up every morning to go to help these children.

"I never thought I would get that buzz without drugs."

Prince Charles has paid tribute to her efforts.

He said: "Emma Honey is a remarkable young woman who has proved that the most appalling difficulties can be overcome.

"Her story, one of determination and dedication, is an inspiration to us all."

Ms Honey has said she hopes to go on to university to become an addiction counsellor.