A 15-YEAR-OLD student who set up a sign language class for his school friends has had his hard work recognised.

Mike Bush, of Castle School, who is profoundly deaf, has been awarded the Mayor of Thornbury's Youth Award 2009.

Mike was chosen for the award after being nominated by his teacher for setting up an After School British Sign Language Course at Castle School, where he is a pupil.

He said: "I’m very pleased I won. I am now confident that more people will be able to use BSL in future."

To set up the course, Mike had to bid for funding from the BIG STASH, a grant scheme ran by South Gloucestershire Youth Service, and contacted a qualified teacher to lead the course.

The course has been running since January and 14 students from Years 7-12 regularly attend, which the school claims has raised awareness amongst pupils of deaf people and the difficulties they can experience.

Melanie Warnes, headteacher at Castle School, said: "I am delighted that Mike is receiving this award as he thoroughly deserves it. At Castle School we are really proud of Mike and the creativity and determination he has shown in putting this course together is truly remarkable."

Mike was presented his award by Thornbury’s former mayor, Cllr Bob Griffin, as one of his last duties at the town council’s annual meeting held earlier this month.

Cllr Griffin said: "In his own time Mike has got together different classes and set up a course for people to learn sign language.

"Having to cope with his own hearing problems Mike used his first hand experience to help educate other people and create greater awareness.

"He has done a really good job and we were very impressed with his efforts."

As well as being presented a certificate Mike was also given £100 to donate to a charity or good cause of his choice.

Other young people recognised as part of the Mayor of Thornbury's Youth Award were Colston Grady, 16 of Marlwood School, who though once described as school phobic, now gives a lot of time to voluntary work.

Also Emily Ashford, 18, who helps to run Thornbury Baptist Church's children's group.