A Watford grammar school has celebrated a former pupil who went on to achieve a Women in Innovation Award after setting up a social enterprise.

Ex- Watford Grammar School for Girls pupil, Emma Shaw, co-founded the Library of Things - a service which helps tackle wasteful consumerism and climate change.

The businesses helps people save money and reduce waste by affordably renting 50 quality DIY and entertainment products, such as drills and sewing machines, from self-serve kiosks installed in local libraries, high streets and housing blocks.

She achieved the Women in Innovation Award earlier this year following her success.

The grammar school has unveiled a purple plaque which will be displayed on site with hopes that it will inspire pupils to follow in her footsteps.

Emma Shaw, co-creator of the Library of Things.

Emma Shaw, co-creator of the Library of Things.

Ms Shaw said: “I’m so excited to be recognised in this way. School played such a big part in setting me on my journey – I started my first business selling snacks from my school locker and donated half of the profits to charity.

“It’s critical that young people have strong role models to follow – I hope this plaque is a reminder to other young women with dreams of starting their own business that they have what it takes to give it a shot.”

Purple plaques are being displayed at schools across the country to recognise the achievements of some of the female innovators who have won the award.

Miss Tai, Headmistress commented:“We want our pupils to realise their potential. As they say, you can’t be what you can’t see – this plaque is a reminder to everyone here of what they can achieve if they set their mind to it.