Footage of a 12-year-old cadet's special Clap for Our Carers has gone viral - even reaching people as far away as Australia and Afghanistan.

Christian Barrow, from Hawkinge near Folkestone, wore his cadet force uniform last night and performed a drill and salute in his front garden in honour of the NHS, the military and Captain Tom Moore.

He was then joined by his siblings for the clap at 8pm.

Proud mum Nikki Barrow has since posted the video of Christian - who has autism - showing his respects on Facebook, and it has now been shared more than 1,000 times.

Mrs Barrow, 37, said: "It really has gone crazy. My phone won't stop buzzing.

"It has been liked by 11,000 people and shared over 1,000 times. But that's just my post. I don't know how far and wide it has really gone.

"We've had offers of military badges for him and someone sent me a message offering a helicopter ride when this is all over.

"I've had messages from Australian veterans and a lady currently serving in Afghanistan.

"One serving soldier said his salute was better than some of his company members."

Christian, who attends The Beacon School in Folkestone, has been missing his twice weekly sessions with the Kent (Marine) Cadet Force since lockdown measures were put into place.

Mrs Barrow, a teaching assistant, said: "He was asked by a fellow cadet if he could do the clap in uniform and he was so excited to dress up as he hasn't been to cadets for a while.

"He loves it - loves the structure and socialising. They learn drills, and about weaponry and go on hikes and orienteering. It's great life skills."

Christian has been inspired by 99 year old Caption Tom Moore - who has raised more than £28m for the NHS by walking around his garden.

Mrs Barrow, also mum to Lakken, 11, and Sienna, 9, said: "Christian just wanted to say thank you and let the world know how grateful he is.

"He said I can do a march as that is what Captain Moore used to do.

"He's so excited he has made so many people happy. He's been beaming today.

"That it is making him happy is enough for us."

Hundreds of people have commented on the video.

One said: "Don't know which cadets this young man attends but they should be very proud. Well done young man."

Another said: "As a veteran myself I have the upmost respect for you young man. You are a credit to your family and this country. Well done stay safe."

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here