PUPIL Giulia Lindsay has been nominated runner-up in the junior geographer of the year award by the Royal Geographical Society.

The 12-year-old studying at Wycombe Abbey School, in High Wycombe, was chosen from more than 1,100 entrants for her answer to the competition question 'Is the City Dead?' in a magazine-style article.

Bear Grylls, who at the age of 23 became the youngest Briton to summit Everest, presented Giulia with the award held by the Geographical Magazine.

Carolyn Fry, magazine editor, said the award scheme has proved to be a highly valuable tool for teachers and pupils alike.

She said: "The award instills confidence into today's young geographers giving them the spur to succeed. Bear Grylls is the perfect role model for these youngsters."

The award, which is in its second year running, aims to inspire pupils to venture beyond the confines of the geography curriculum and look at more fundamental issues.