A CARING teenager was awarded honorary lifelong membership of a charity for his work on its behalf.

Kevin Paterson, who has just turned 18 and has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and is blind, accompanies his father, David, and dog Jolene on weekly visits to two County Durham residential homes as part of the Pets As Therapy (Pat) scheme.

While Jolene meets the elderly residents, Kevin spreads his own brand of cheer at Albion House, in Willington in the Wear Valley, and St Goderic's Close, Newton Hall, in Durham.

He is so committed to Pat that he recently raised £100 with a fundraising evening for the charity.

As a reward for his efforts, Durham City MP Gerry Steinberg presented him with the certificate of lifelong membership.

Mr Steinberg said: "I'm delighted to be doing this.

"Kevin is a remarkable young man whom I have known for five or six years.

"He even helped me during my election campaign, so I'm returning the favour."

Maureen Hennis, northern director of Pat, said: "I think Kevin is amazing.

"He's absolutely committed to the Pets as Therapy charity."

Kevin, of Witton Gilbert, County Durham, said: "I cheer people up whether they like it or not.

"Jolene gets the pats and I get all the kisses. We're going to keep doing it."