AN inspirational schoolboy felt the long arm of the law after telling a schools awards ceremony that he wanted to be a policeman when he grows up as “they just drive around”.

However, the boys in blue sprang a surprise by visiting his school where the delighted 11-year-old was arrested and handcuffed for ‘acts of bravery and overcoming adversity’ and shown the inside of a police van.

Charlie York picked up the Overcoming Adversity Award at The Northern Echo’s recent Schools Awards after staff and fellow pupils at Aysgarth School, near Bedale, nominated him for his courage and positive attitude.

He was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis aged just one and after major problems with infections underwent a double lung transplant last year which has transformed his life.

The 11-year-old's success and thoughts on the police force were picked up by Durham Chief Constable Mike Barton, who said: "Charlie sounded like a smashing young man who has tackled the challenges he has faced with courage and character. When I read in the Echo that he wanted to be a policeman, we just had to get involved.

“After a couple of phone calls, our colleagues at North Yorkshire Police were able to arrange a day for him which I am sure he will never forget.”

Rob Morse, headteacher at Aysgarth School at Newton-l-Willows, said: "On stage at the awards ceremony Charlie expressed his interest in becoming a policeman and we were extremely touched by the generous response from North Yorkshire Police to come and visit the school and recognise Charlie for his bravery.

“Inspector Mark Gee visited, gave an inspirational talk to the whole school during morning chapel. He spoke about the role of the police and the critical part it plays in supporting the local community.

"He then arrested and handcuffed Charlie for ‘acts of bravery and overcoming adversity’ and led him outside to the police van. Charlie was given a tour of the van, locked in the cage at the back and shown how features of the van worked including, of course, the sirens.”

Inspector Gee said: "I was happy to go along and give him and his schoolmates an inside insight into modern day policing and the equipment we use.

“While driving around is part of the job, it is so much more. I think if Charlie was still interested in joining the police force when he’s grown up he would be a real asset and have a very bright future in policing.”

Mr Morse added: “All the staff and boys at Aysgarth are immensely proud of Charlie. He has faced such enormous adversity as a result of his cystic fibrosis but is a true fighter who does not give up. "