A TEENAGER who has not let autism hold him back has been chosen as a runner for the Queen's Jubilee Baton Relay.

Andrew Watson, who attends Beaumont Hill Technology College, in Darlington, was nominated for the honour because he has overcome his difficulties so well.

Teacher Joanne Smith said: "Andrew takes part in absolutely everything and this is a tremendous achievement for him.

"He is a member of our student council, he has played for the school football team and just has a go at absolutely everything. He has got a lovely, positive attitude."

The relay began on Commonwealth Day, March 11, at Buckingham Palace and passed through 22 Commonwealth countries before returning to the UK at the start of this month.

It is now on its final journey through 500 UK towns in 50 days, before it is handed to the Queen to read its enclosed message on July 25, at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games, in Manchester.

Andrew, 14, who lives in Sedgefield, will carry the baton for 500 yards during its leg in Hartlepool.

His teacher said: "Andrew is so excited. He believes he has been chosen by the Queen herself and he is actually carrying it for her.

"He is very proud and so are his parents. He has been parading around at school and everybody is very proud of him."