A MALDON teenager has been handed a prestigious award recognising his “courageous and inspirational” approach to life while battling a rare nerve condition.

Michael Lester, 16, was presented a Diana Award by TOWIE star Ricky Rayment at a ceremony on Chelmsford last week.

Michale, a Plume student, has Demyelinating Motor Sensory Neuropathy and bi-lateral hearing loss.

He was one of a number of young people from across the eastern region who were recognised in the awards, set up in memory of Princess Diana.

Both staff and students at Plume praised Michael’s courageous and inspirational approach to life.

Michael has not let his medical conditions prevent him from achieving fantastic academic results and from being a highly active and supportive member of school life.

He was described as a “continual source of energy and inspiration to his peers and teachers who are reminded by his presence that disability is no barrier to success.”

Michael is also a Scout.

Tessy Ojo, Chief Executive, Diana Award, said: “These young people come from all walks of life and many have challenging and disadvantaged backgrounds, however what they share is a deep sense of social responsibility. “Through our unique training, mentoring and development programmes we empower and motivate them to continue contributing their communities throughout their life.”

Jonathan Harper, CEO of Future Foundations added: “Future Foundations is excited to support our fellow member of Generation Change, The Diana Award with the delivery of their INSPIRE Series. “Our mission is to inspire young people to achieve their full potential and become leaders in their lives and within society. “The INSPIRE Series does this by recognising incredible young people who have already made a difference to do more and by involving young people who are interested in doing so in the future. “We are looking forward to challenging the Award Holders to take their social action to the next level and to working with those yet to be involved in a social action project, to inspire them to do so and provide a framework for how they can”.