DEFYING all teenage stereotypes, 13-year-old Jordan Clayton spends his spare time helping others in his community and doesn't ask for a penny in return.

The West Craven High Technology College pupil is the youngest person on the honours list for Barnoldswick's Town Awards, which will be presented next Thursday at the annual town meeting.

Jordan was nominated for volunteering to help the town warden with his duties, such as putting out hanging baskets and litter-picking. He has also lent a helping hand at events such as the Fireworks Fantasia and Christmas lights switch-on.

Town warden Ian Kirkbride said: "Doing what he does is quite an exception - it's refreshing really to see a young lad who's so keen to help. He thoroughly deserves the award."

Jordan's nomination for the "Outstanding Service to the Local Community" award reads: "At a time when many young people in our local community are perceived as being a source of community problems, he proves the exception and thereby challenges this popular misconception."

"He is a fitting example that most young people in our town are making positive contributions to their community and engaging in constructive activities."