A DETERMINED Rochdale schoolboy was given a top award for overcoming a debilitating condition.

Spotland Primary School pupil Ali Shah, aged eight, suffers from a form of autism but doesn’t let the disorder get him down.

His positive attitude brightens up the classroom and the Year 3 youngster always works hard in lessons, according to Kathryn Jagger, the school’s inclusion manager.

She said he was popular with staff, pupils and parents alike, adding: "He has made great progress this year, particularly with his French which is excellent.

"He’s much more confident now and enjoys taking part in lessons. He’s bubbly, full of life and spirit and popular with all his peers and teachers so he is a deserving winner of our Childer Award."