A young Cross Hills woman has scooped a top honour for her invention of a sustainable refrigerator.

Emily Cummins, 24, scooped the Achievement in Management and Enterprise accolade at the Yorkshire Young Achievers Awards, set up to recognise the accomplishments of people in the region under the age of 35.

The refrigerator is Emily’s latest invention. Powered by dirty water, it keeps medicines or small food items clean, dry and cool.

Townships across southern Africa have been given the design plans to help people build their own refrigerators.

Emily, who takes a keen interest in sustainable design, has also created a water carrier which can be used to carry multiple loads in Africa, and a toothpaste dispenser, which is not only a useful aid for anyone with limited hand mobility, but can also be used for a variety of products in situations where hygiene is essential.

Inspired by her grandfather, Emily began making toys in his shed when she was just four and was fascinated by the process. She attended South Craven School, Cross Hills, before graduating with first class honours in Management and Sustainability from Leeds University.

She is currently working with CragRats, an education and training organisation.

Emily has won many awards for her innovations and has just been named as one of the Top Ten Outstanding Young People in the World 2010 by Junior Chamber International.

Speaking after she was presented with her Yorkshire Young Achievers award at the Leeds United Centenary Pavilion at Elland Road, she said: “I’m absolutely over the moon. I had no idea whatsoever I was receiving it. I looked at past winners and wasn’t sure I’d meet the criteria.

“For me, to have the award is amazing because I can pass on to the other young people of Yorkshire that they can achieve things too.”