A NORTH YORKSHIRE teenager is one of only ten people about to pick up a national award after winning the praise of hospital staff.

Robert Hornby, 17, has been chosen to receive a Child of Resolution award this year after making incredible progress during an eight-month stay at York District Hospital.

He was nominated by his hospital teacher, Dorothy Gilbert, and will pick up a certificate and £100 prize at a ceremony at the House of Lords on May 14.

Robert, from Boroughbridge, underwent a risky operation to repair a heart defect which had left him unable to walk or speak.

But despite at one stage being totally dependent on hospital staff for his physical needs, he went on to complete mock GCSEs in geography and maths.

Robert said: "I've never been to London before and I can't wait to go. It's all really exciting and I'm so pleased to have won this award.