A TEENAGER facing major surgery has received a Young Citizen Award for his fundraising efforts.

Aidan Jackson, 14, has raised more than £16,000 in just two years for the Olivia Alice Foundation which helps disabled children and their families.

The Ormiston Chadwick Academy pupil was inspired to organise events in memory of his friend, 15-year-old Olivia Walker who had complex disabilities and died in 2014.

Aidan, of Francis Close, Ditton, said: “I wanted to help her family as much as possible.

“This award is not just for me, it is for Olivia, my family and the public who have supported each of my fundraising events.”

He received the award alongside seven other young people from GB and Irelend during a live BBC broadcast.

Nominated by Widnes Rotary Club, he also received £500 for Olivia’s charity.

Aidan has Asperger’s and also suffers from a condition which causes him to walk on his toes.

His mum Caroline, 44, said: “Day to day things were a struggle and still are but when it comes to fundraising he’s a different person.”

Aidan, who has difficulty walking, swam 21 miles, the equivalent of the English Channel in 2015, raising £6,500.

This year he filled the Select Security Stadium with almost 11,000 teddy bears in a sponsored challenge.

Aidan may now need surgery at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital which could keep him in plaster for six weeks and in splints for a year.

He added: “Until I know my treatment plan for my legs I am unable to plan another event just yet but I am sure it won’t be too long before I come up with an idea so watch this space.”

The inspirational schoolboy is urging people to support Olivia’s Butterfly Ball, an annual fundraiser for the Olivia Alice Foundation.

It is being held on May 20 at The Crowne Plaza in Speke.

Tickets priced £40, including a three course meal are available on 07890 013808.

Watch Aidan's appearance on the BBC here.