A YOUNG boy with cerebral palsy, who has beaten the odds to begin walking, is to receive one of The Northern Echo's Positive Young People awards.

When Callum Hunter started at Skerne Park Primary School, in Darlington, he was unable to walk or sit without support.

Now Callum, five, of Hammond Drive, is able to walk several metres on his own, can sit up in a chair and takes part in all school activities, including PE, using his walking frame.

He was nominated for an award by his teacher, Yvonne Carson, in recognition of his determination, enthusiasm and positive attitude.

Callum lives with his grandparents, Angela and Frank Hunter, his sisters Davinia, four, and Sophie, eight, and brother Nathan, seven.

Mrs Hunter said: "Callum is at school full-time and he tries every lesson - there is no stopping him. The teachers are great, I think he would be annoyed if they tried to leave him out."

Despite a physiotherapy regime and speech programme to conquer a severe stammer, Callum never complains.

"He says his greatest wish is to be like all his friends. He is a really happy little boy, who loves playing with his friends," said his grandmother.

"They can't do enough for him, they are always getting his coat and helping out."

Callum is one of more than 100 youngsters who will be honoured at a ceremony, sponsored by npower, at Darlington Civic Theatre on Wednesday.