THE family of a 15-year-old who has won a national award say they are so proud of his character and achievements.
After completing the bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award around St Helens in record time, Andrew Bridge was put forward for further recognition as his leadership and organisational skills meant that his group even beat school teachers and DofE volunteers.
As Andrew is an ambassador at St Cuthbert's High in Parr, for his work assisting teachers and helping those isolated or struggling to get involved in lunchtime rugby games, DofE representatives were also impressed with the young Sintelliner's leadership and compassion.
After being nominated for an accolade at the first-ever Duke of Edinburgh 'This is Youth' awards, Andrew came runner up in the 'Trailblazer of the Year' category.
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Adding to his already impressive CV, the St Cuthbert's pupil has also won a Pride of St Helens award after he raised the alarm when he saw a woman drowning in the canal near the Vulcan Village, aged seven, while on a wildlife spotting trip with his dad.
The Burtonwood Bulldogs rugby player also travels with his dad to special schools, nursing homes, and social events to showcase their birds of prey and deliver special moments, and he featured in an award-winning documentary on bird egg collecting that was put forward for an Oscar nomination.
The 15-year-old is also working towards his Duke of Edinburgh silver award, which will be another addition to his list of achievements.
Speaking to the Star about his son's achievements, dad John said: "Andrew has done so much but he doesn't even think he has done anything out of the ordinary.
"That's just what he is like, he is inspired by people like Andy Reid and Steve Prescott and wants to do what he can to help people. He just likes making other people happy."
Andrew added: "I've never expected to get much back from what I do, it's just something that I enjoy doing and making other people happy.
"It was a bit of a shock [to be nominated for the DofE award] but it was really nice to be recognised, and it gives me the confidence to carry on doing what I'm doing."
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