JASON Parkington has received a royal congratulation at Buckingham Palace for his outstanding contribution to the Prison Service -- despite suffering from dyslexia.

The Butler Trust Awards, which aim to encourage positive work in prisons, were presented by patron Princess Anne.

Jason, who lives in Blackburn but works at HM Preston Prison in Ribbleton Lane, was the first dyslexic prison officer in the service to receive the award .

He was diagnosed with the disease six years into his prison career.

The awards cite changing senior office exams so that dyslexic officers are treated as equals and working to increase the understanding of dyslexia in the service as Jason's greatest achievements.

He said: "I have ten years worth of campaigning and letters all the way up from the prison service to Blackburn MP Jack Straw to the Prime Minister.

"I have got this award for making people stand up and take dyslexia seriously and proving people wrong."

Jason has also been credited for his work with dyslexic prisoners and highlighting the links between learning difficulties, low self-esteem and criminology.

Julie Farnworth, head of planning and development, said: "We are really pleased to have three people receive awards in the same year. Jason has undertaken extensive work to enhance the prison service and everyone's understanding of dyslexia."

Jason also operates as a member of the Home Office Disability Support group supporting dyslexic civil servants nationwide.

Five prison officers from Preston Prison received awards and a group award was presented for the first night centre which has been set up at Preston to help prisoners adjust to prison life.

The Butler Trust awards were set up in 1985 as a registered charity to encourage exceptional work in the prison service.

Anyone who would like more information about dyslexia can contact Jason via the prison on 01772 556 634.