A SCHOOLBOY is celebrating after picking up a special award from a diabetes charity.

Leo Turner, from Black Notley, was presented with the award by Diabetes UK after completing several fundraising activities.

The eight year-old, who has Type 1 diabetes, climbed Mount Snowdon with his family to show those with the condition that they shouldn't stop let it stop them doing things. He also held a music evening to raise awareness and money for the charity.

Leo said: "I love to climb and wanted to show everyone that having diabetes shouldn’t stop you from doing anything. Just do it."

People with Type 1 diabetes cannot produce insulin and while nobody knows exactly what causes it, it’s not to do with being overweight and it isn’t currently preventable.

It is treated by daily insulin doses by injections or via an insulin pump.

He was presented with the East of England Young Person’s Outstanding Contribution Inspire Award at a special event for Diabetes UK supporters in Colchester.