AN eleven-year-old boy from Stanton St Quintin was honoured with a Diana Award, presented by the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, for his campaign to fight for disabled rights.

Jonathan Bryan, who has serve cerebral palsy and communicates through a letter board using only his eyes, was one of 20 young people to receive an inaugural Diana Legacy award at St James' Palace on Thursday (May 19).

The 11-year-old, who was "locked in" and unable to speak three years ago, has spearheaded the Teach Us Too campaign that has attracted nearly 200,000 signatures on a change.org petition.

"The secret is out," he wrote on his blog on Friday. "I am excited, honoured and humbled to have received an inaugural Diana Legacy Award from HRH Prince William and HRH Prince Harry at St James's Palace yesterday. Meeting the inspiring young people who also received the award was a privilege and I am humbled to hold the same accolade as them.

"The Teach Us Too campaign journey has not been trail blazed alone, and I receive this award with thanks in my heart to everyone who has travelled the path with me; and I am immensely grateful for the Diana Award for joining me as I seek to be a voice for the voiceless."

The 19 other winners, who came from the UK, United States, Canada, India, Belize and the United Arab Emirates, were recognised for their efforts creating positive social change in their communities and counties.

Speaking at St James's Palace, where the awards ceremony was held, William said: "This summer marks 20 years since our mother died and she achieved so much in her life, from helping to shatter the stigma around Aids, to fighting to ban landmines and supporting the homeless - she touched the lives of millions.

"The truth is though, she was taken at only 36, just slightly older then I am today. Of course we can never know what our mother would have gone on to do, but in one sense Harry and I feel that our mother lives on in the countless acts of compassion and bravery that she inspires in others.

"That is why we are so pleased that her name is being put to good use by the Diana Award to recognise young people who are making a mark in the world around them."