A MAN who has inspired hundreds of local schoolchildren with his story of survival is to receive a Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of Princess Diana's most cherished campaign. Landmine victim Tun Channareth, who has stayed in close contact with Blackburn folk since he visited the town in 1994, has been chosen by the international anti-landmines campaign to collect their prestigious prize next month. Youngsters from the area, and the Catholic international aid agency (CAFOD) who organised of his visit, were thrilled to hear of Tun's success and sent him a message of congratulations.

Tun has dedicated himself to raising the profile of the anti-landmines campaign - boosted by Princess Diana's support - since losing both his legs in a landmine explosion as a Cambodian boy soldier in the early 1960s.

Despite his injuries, he threw himself into spreading his message and travelled to Blackburn in March 1994 - between engagements with former Prime Minister John Major and the Pope.

He took part in a development education week at the West End Youth Centre, Blackburn, where he met hundreds of local youngsters and group leaders.

Since then Tun has continued to maintain contact with schools in the area, through the Catholic aid agency.

Peter Grimshaw, regional director, revealed how he still sends newspaper cuttings, photographs and news updates to Tun and his family in Cambodia.

Peter said: "He is a strong character who is truly inspirational. When he stayed in Blackburn he insisted on exploring the town alone and did nothing to hide the fact that he had lost both his legs.

"He wanted to show people what his injuries looked like and hoped that it would urge them to support the campaign."

"Reth - as he became known - often spoke to me of how he was moved and inspired to carry on with his work by the support of ordinary people like those he met in Blackburn.

"His honour in accepting the prize is also a recognition and an honour for all of those Blackburn people who participated in the anti-landmines campaign in generous and often hidden ways.

"The people of Blackburn should be congratulated for their part, especially when few others were involved in the early stages of the campaign." Father Jim McCartney, of St Anne's House, in Blackburn, said: "I vividly remember Tun. His commitment and determination was very impressive and he gave Blackburn youngsters help to forget their own problems by putting them in perspective. I hope he returns one day."

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