Matthew Docherty was all smiles yesterday as teachers told him he had been nominated as one of Bradford's best young people.

The nine-year-old, who attends Wedgewood Special School in Holme Wood, was nominated for a Bradford Young Citizen Award by teacher Pam Wadeson.

The awards aim to celebrate the achievements and positive contributions youngsters make to the Bradford district.

Mrs Wadeson said Matthew had been put forward in the Bradford Council-run scheme because of how well he had done with his reading and the "enormous progress" he had made.

She said: "From not being able to read 18 months ago and just making noise he is now able to read from several books. We are so proud of him."

Matthew's mum, Elizabeth Finnerty, 29, of Sutton Road, Tyersal, said: "I just found out this morning and I feel so proud of him.

"He is just like any other nine-year-old and loves playing with his brother, Jordan, and listening to music.

"He plays football and loves making lots of noise."

Matthew is well known by both staff and pupils at the school. School manager Ann Ames said: "We are very pleased to have him here. He is so enthusiastic about everything and is a star."

The awards will be presented at an Oscars-style ceremony at St George's Hall, Bradford, on Thursday, March 22, and Wedgewood head teacher Liz Flavell said they would be holding a party on the day.

The Bradford Young Citizen Awards 2007 have been set up by the Council in association with the Telegraph & Argus.

There are six categories which can be won by individuals or groups:

  • the Healthy Lifestyles Award is open to those who have participated in health, fitness and wellbeing projects
  • Tackling Bullying will reward those who have taken an active part in schemes to prevent it
  • Participation for Success is open to those who have been involved in a project which enabled them to meet their personal goals
  • the Active Citizenship Award will be given to those who have taken part in community projects which help others
  • the Enterprise and Aspiration Award will recognise those who have increased their employability, given themselves access to school or further education, or shown a nose for business
  • the Outstanding Achievement Award will be presented to exceptional high-achievers or entrepreneurs.

Further forms are available from Philip Kitson, Office of Services to Children and Young People, Room 202, City Hall, Bradford. Telephone (01274) 431933, or e-mail philip. kitson@bradford.gov.uk e-mail: saima.mir@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

  • Click here for a printable version of the nomination form