A YOUNG pupil at Hereford Cathedral Junior School has been presented with a 'Child of Achievement' award for overcoming a life threatening illness with great courage and dignity.

James Gething-Lewis, aged five, was born with cancer of the abdomen but his determination to live a normal childhood has proved an inspiration to others.

Headteacher Tim Lowe, who nominated James, said: "James has undergone extensive surgery and long sessions of chemotherapy. He was two-and-a-half before he learned to drink or swallow. He now eats like a horse, and drinks like a fish, according to his mother!

Happily

"His liver is affected and despite the fact that he has had to cope with incontinence, he goes off to school quite happily. James walks with a toddler's gait, but he manages. He has to cope with a speech delay, but he manages. He has to wear glasses because of weak muscles but he manages."

James was presented with the award at a glittering ceremony at the London Hilton on Sunday by actress Seeta Indrani and former Prime Minister John Major.

Now in its 20th year, the Child of Achievement is regarded as the most prestigious children's awards in the country. They aim to act as an inspiration to other young people, their family and friends, of what can be achieved against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Mr Lowe added: "To reach the situation of being a 'normal' child in the school reception is an incredible achievement and his story truly can give inspiration to other parents and families with similarly ill children.

"Seeing his smiling face at the first full assembly was the most emotional moment of my teaching career."

At the ceremony, James received a certificate and a specially commissioned trophy as well as a selection of goodies to take home. He then enjoyed a party lunch along with the other 150 winners. James was also given an individual photograph and a video to capture all the memories of the day.

As an extra surprise the awards sponsor Airtours have promised each winning child and his or her family a holiday.

James' mother Karen said: "It was a big shock to hear the family are to be treated to a holiday - we are not sure where we are going to go yet but my daughter Annabel has a few ideas.

Personality

"James and the other children were treated to a Punch and Judy show and you could hear him laughing over everybody else."

Along with charity patrons John Major and Bob Holness presenting the awards, a number of well-known personalities and children's heroes from the world of sport and television were present, including Gaby Roslin and Jane McDonald.

Karen added: "The day was a real tear jerker. It was great to meet the other families and hear the stories they had to tell."