AN inspirational trainee doctor has been presented with an award from the Prime Minister for her efforts to end female genital mutilation.

Yvonne Obura, from Salisbury, received a Points of Light volunteering award for her work with London-based international charity Orchid Project educating thousands of medical students about female genital mutilation.

Points of Light recognises outstanding individual volunteers who are making a difference in their community and inspiring others, and has been developed in partnership with the US programme, which has been hugely successful.

When Ms Obura started practicing medicine in the UK, she quickly realised that awareness of female genital mutilation among doctors was low and needed to increase. She contacted Orchid Project and helped to develop training materials which provide guidance on how to approach cases, including clarifying the UK legal position, setting out the medical complications that can arise and stating the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists policy.

She said: “I am delighted and honoured to receive this award. Through this work, I have encountered truly passionate individuals who are dedicated to bringing an end to female genital cutting. Together we can realise this goal within a generation.”

She was presented with the award on Thursday at the Government's Girl Summit to mobilise efforts to end female genital mutilation and child marriage within a generation.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “I'm hugely impressed that Yvonne has worked so hard to educate fellow medical students. Only by working together to raise awareness of this disgusting and unacceptable practice can we end it for good. Yvonne is playing an important role in these vital efforts and I'm delighted to make her a Point of Light.”

Salisbury MP John Glen said: “I am delighted to acknowledge the critical contribution Yvonne is making to increase awareness of female genital cutting amongst medical students. This award is recognition of her commitment to making future doctors aware of this vile practice. Many congratulations.”