by Stephen Waite

A young carer who has given up his time to help others with sport-related activities has won a countywide award.

Bicknor teenager Jake Pearson was announced as the Sport Maker of the Month for April after volunteering at a variety of events.

Jake, 17, who is doing A-levels at Borden Grammar School, registered with the scheme at the end of last year and has volunteered for more than 20 hours, including helping out at the Sport Relief Mile in Maidstone.

The sixth-former also helped take a group sailing for a week with the Cirdan Sailing Trust, which enables young people, particularly those who are socially, physically or mentally disadvantaged, to experience life at sea.

In addition to the trip, he has completed a National Yachting Association Competent Crew Certificate, while helping others achieve the same.

Jake, along with younger brother Jed, helps care for his mum Claire, who has health problems.

Jake’s love of sailing began when he went on a trip through his involvement with Crossroads Young Carers in Shepway, Maidstone, about four years ago.

And it was the opportunities he has had through the carers group that inspired him to take part in the Sport Maker scheme.

He said: “I want to give back to charities that have paid for young carers to take part in activities like trampolining and ice skating.”

The award, which includes a £50 sports voucher, a sports bag and a certificate, was announced by Kent Sport, Kent County Council’s sports arm.

Jake will also receive a free place on one of the organisation’s education workshops.

This week, Jake is in Spain on a water sports trip with Borden Grammar after being picked to help younger pupils.

He also plans to be at next month’s Race For Life in Maidstone. Later this summer he is off to Tanzania on a World Challenge expedition with the school.

Claire said her son had ambitions to become a nurse and planned to go to university in Southampton.