THE first British woman to conquer Everest has encouraged girls to make strong choices.

Rebecca Stephens MBE was speaking at The Queen’s School prize giving ceremony at St John’s Church in Chester, where she presented 200 prizes..

Headmistress Sarah Clark said: “Rebecca Stephens spoke about the need for young people to make strong personal choices and to follow their dreams and aspirations, studying subjects that they are passionate about. This is something that we at Queen’s strongly believe in.”

Student success was recognised in sport, music, service to the school and community and academic subjects.