A BRIGHT spark from Cowdenbeath is ‘Scotland Young Thinker of the Year’.

Lauren Bennett triumphed after her six-minutes presentation on the possibility of robots taking our jobs in the future scored top marks.

The 25-year-old, who works for Fife Council in the economy, planning and employability service, was given the accolade through the Young Scotland Programme Awards, part of a UK-wide programme.

It aims to encourage talent and develop greater intellectual thought among young workers and volunteers and participants delivered a talk on a current issue for society.

Lauren said: “I would encourage any person in the early stages of their career to consider applying to the Young Scotland Programme. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience.

"It was particularly refreshing to be discussing important topics for today’s society in such an open and engaging environment.

“The programme presents an opportunity for participants to share their thoughts and experiences and gain extra confidence in the early stages of their careers.”

The council’s Gordon Mole said: “We are very fortunate to welcome many talented young employees and graduates. Their creativity and confidence brings fresh thinking and new energy to many aspects of our work.”