William has power talks with world champion who triumphed after being homeless

Updated

The Duke of Cambridge met a woman who went from being homeless to a world champion powerlifter as he presented awards to young people who have defied their troubled backgrounds to become "beacons of hope" for others.

William was joined by celebrities Jonathan Ross and Sara Cox at a glittering ceremony in central London to honour young people who have overcome homelessness to turn their lives around, helped by the charity Centrepoint.

Among them was Monique Newton, who was recognised for her sporting achievements.

The 23-year-old, from Fulham, was thrown out of home at 15 and after two years of being homeless was admitted to the Priory for mental health issues.

After treatment the charity gave her stability, a home, and the chance to discover a love of weightlifting - and now she is a four-time world champion, breaking a host of British and European records along the way.

As well as training twice a day, Ms Newton works for a charity which offers activities and services for other youngsters, including providing 3,000 meals for homeless people.

She said: "I don't know where I would be without Centrepoint. Everyone has the potential to do whatever they want, but not everyone has the courage or determination.

"But if you put your mind to it you can do anything."

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