A TEENAGER whose mother was murdered when he was a toddler, was last night rewarded for his efforts in helping others in the same situation.

Kevin Hogg was only three years old when his mother, pizza delivery girl Julie Hogg was strangled.

Until a few years ago, he did not even know how she had died. Since finding out, the 16-year-old has spent time raising money for the group Support After Murder and Manslaughter (Samm) and written letters of support to others in similar circumstances.

Last night, he won an award for his community work at the annual Smart awards held in Billingham.

The awards, organised by Stockton Borough Council but judged by young people, recognise the good things achieved by youngsters in the borough.

Kevin, a pupil at Bishopsgarth School, in the town, was nominated for his award by his learning mentor, Russell Crawford, who has spent the past year getting to know Kevin. He said: "He is a remarkable young lad who has given a lot of time to helping others.

"He held an auction of promises last year, which raised £200 for Samm, all because he does not want other people to suffer what he has gone through.

"He deserves the award, as he has put a lot of time and effort into helping others and is just everybody's friend."

Kevin's proud grandmother, Ann Ming, said both sheand her husband, Charlie, were very proud of Kevin and all he has achieved in such a short space of time.

She said: "Kevin only got to know a while ago what happened to his mum, and since then has taken it upon himself to raise money for the group.

"He didn't tell us what he was doing and did it all off his own back. We are really very proud of him. For someone so young, it is a great achivement."

THE ROLL OF HONOUR

The award-winners:

Education achievement - Fiona Besford, 20. Fiona has learning difficulties with writing and visual processing, but she attended Bede College, in Billingham, to take advanced level study.

Educational effort - Laura Quinn, 13. Laura has made excellent progress at school, despite learning difficulties.

Sport - Thomas Horrocks, 15, who has spina bifida. He has represented his school at cricket and is in the under 15 bowling team. He has won many swimming awards.

Community work - Kevin Hogg, 16.

The arts - Elliott Francis. Despite having the chronic illness ME, Elliott has managed to appear in productions of Oliver, the Demon Headmaster and was in the last 40 to be short-listed to be in a play at the London Palladium.

Teamwork - Billingham Red Cross. These youngsters gave up part of their summer holidays to help at the Billingham International Folklore Festival.

Bravery - Scott Hannant, 16. Having lost his brother and then his grandfather, Scott still managed to attend school and has reached the top 40 per cent of his year group.

Volunteering - Katy Hutchcraft, 15. Three different groups nominated Katy, firstly because of her involvement with youth forums, by local ward councillors Kath Sainsbury and David Coleman, and also by The Willows youth club for her outstanding commitment to the club.

Special needs - Helen King, 14. Helen is only mobile with her electric wheelchair as a result of cerebral palsy. Hard work and determination have ensured that she works full time in mainstream school.

Exceptional award - Mandale Mill Primary Volunteer Group, all aged seven to 11. This group of youngsters work along staff to improve their school.