AN Ipswich teenager with a rare blood disorder has won a national award for achievement in the face of adversity.Former Otley College student Keiron Clougherty, 19, was recognised for his hard work on an animal studies course there last year.

AN Ipswich teenager with a rare blood disorder has won a national award for achievement in the face of adversity.

Former Otley College student Keiron Clougherty, 19, was recognised for his hard work on an animal studies course there last year.

Now he has picked up a Helena Kennedy Foundation award at the House of Lords.

Keiron suffers from a rare condition called Churg Strauss Syndrome which causes flu-like symptoms because of a blood cell deficiency.

His name was put forward for the £1,000 funding by Gaynor Marsh, who taught him at the college and went with him to Parliament.

She said: “Keiron is a determined and ambitious young man who has worked extremely hard to realise his dreams of working with animals and thanks to this award is now able to continue his educational development.

“I was overwhelmed when Keiron asked if I would be his guest for the day and I am very proud of him.”

Keiron said he was delighted to win the award.

“It has helped give me the belief and confidence to continue my studies. I am really looking forward to the future.”

John Nice, from the college, added: “Keiron is a credit to the college and a real gutsy character. We are delighted he has gained national recognition.”

The Helena Kennedy Foundation supports disadvantaged students through education. Emma Rich, also from Otley College, won an award too.

She is taking a year out and is working at Pets at Home in Ranelagh Road, Ipswich.

She will use the money to help fund her place on a foundation degree in Animal Management at Otley next year.

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