A TEENAGER who set up a support group to help siblings of autism suffers has seen his hard work recognised by the Government.

Harry Tinkler, who helps to care for his brother Freddie, gives up all of his spare time to work on the Action for Autism Families (AFAF), which supports families across the east Cleveland area.

The 15-year-old, along with his mother Ginny, helps to provide support and assistance by organising parents’ groups and family days.

Now the teenager from Skelton, east Cleveland, has met with the Minister for the Cabinet office, Francis Maude, to be presented with his Point of Light certificate in recognition of his dedication to the voluntary sector.

On receiving the award, he said: ““Wow, thank you very much for this award, I am totally shocked, I am just a normal teenager helping others like myself, sometimes our lives can be really tough, I am just trying to help others understand and not feel alone.”

The government’s Point of Light scheme recognises people around the country who help to make a change in their community.