A FORMER deputy head boy of a Roman Catholic high school has received a special award for helping children with special needs in an after-school homework club.

Andrew Graham, 16, of Blackburn, was presented with the Joan Scholes Award for service after being nominated by members of the town's Soroptimists International.

The former deputy head boy of St Bede's RC High, Blackburn, is hoping to study tourism and leisure at college in September and received the award at the end of the school's summer numeracy and literacy club.

A spokesman for the school said: "Andrew has helped run three summer schools, but the award, which was open to all pupils aged between 11 and 16, was given in recognition of his work with special needs pupils at St Bede's.

"He has given long hours to Club 35, a special needs homework club here and also helped organise fund-raising events to help buy extra equipment for the club."

Andrew is pictured receiving his award -- plus a cheque for £25 -- from Tricia Coll, president of Soroptimists International, Blackburn.