STEP forward Andrew McNulty - the teenager who looks after his poorly mum, takes his sister to swimming lessons, cares for his younger brothers and cleans the house.

Now Andrew, 13 - who moved to Portland after witnessing a murder in his native Scotland - has been named Young Person of the Year at the Dorset Echo's People Awards for his outstanding support of his family.

Hanging out the washing, cleaning and cooking for his mother, taking his six-year-old sister Derry to her sports club and entertaining his two brothers, David, nine, and Kieran, three, is all in a day's work for Andrew.

Andrew of Courtlands Road, Portland, was nominated for the award by his friend Bradley's mum Daniella Reed who was impressed by the youngster.

He was chosen from a shortlist by a panel of judges and presented with a trophy at last night's awards ceremony at Weymouth College to recognise the community's unsung heroes.

His mum Moira was delighted with her award-winning son.

She said: "He's a brilliant help to me. I couldn't manage without him - he's a godsend, that child.

"I've just had a full hysterectomy and I have endometriosis - a condition where cells that usually line the womb are found elsewhere in the body.

"I had an operation before Christmas last year.

"Andrew's the eldest of four and he's always helping with all the younger ones. He cooks, cleans and keeps the place going.

"He's a very good influence. I can't explain it - he's just one of those kids that life radiates from."

She added: "In primary school he was labelled such a naughty child but I kept saying something wasn't right, and in his first term at Wey Valley he was diagnosed with dyslexia and it turned him around.

"He's been voted school and tutor councillor for three consecutive years.

"He's been through so much as a little kid. We moved down from Scotland after he witnessed a murder and took part in the trial that sent the man to jail.

"He just takes everything in his stride and is so helpful."

Other winners at last night's awards included Channel-swimming king Mervyn Sharp of Coronation Crescent, Annette Sanders of Chickerell Road, the Framptons of Jestys Avenue, Ann Giffen and Julia Ryan of Holcombe Close, Preston, Renee Calcut of Mellstock Avenue, Dorchester and head teacher Vicky Prior of Portesham Primary School.

  • For the full story on all award winners see tomorrow's Dorset Echo.