A prize created in memory of a budding reporter who died suddenly has been presented to its first journalism graduate.

Darren Joliney graduated with a BA in Journalism from Glasgow Caledonian University in June last year but collapsed while playing football in January this year at the age of 21  – with doctors said his death was caused by Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome.

A prize was set up in his memory to be presented to the top student graduating each year from the journalism course Darren attended and Catherine Ritchie was announced as the first winner of the prize.

She was presented with the award by Darren’s sister Maria in a ceremony at the university which was attended by other members of his family and his former class mates.

Darren's sister Maria, left, presents the award to Catherine.

Maria said: “On behalf of my whole family, I’d like to thank GCU for honouring Darren. This prize will ensure his memory will never fade and we warmly congratulate Catherine.

“If this award stands for anything, it’s about unconditional friendship, an ability to work and play hard – in equal measure – and above all else, the ability to punch above your weight and reach for the stars.

“Darren hoarded friends and everywhere he went, he picked up new ones, including those he made at GCU. Every day we remember Darren, every day we miss him and every day we wake up thinking he should still be with us.”

Catherine said: “I am very happy to be the first winner of this award. I know everyone across the whole journalism programme was absolutely shocked by Darren’s death.”