AN orphan refugee who arrived at Manchester Airport three years ago is no an ambassador to other young asylum seekers.

Charles Fon was just 16, he was smuggled out of Cameroon in West Africa by his uncle after his mother and father had been murdered for their political beliefs.

"It was terrifying," he said, remembering his arrival one frosty Spring morning after a tiring three-day journey.

"Everything was so different. And I didn't know what kind of people I would meet."

Today, Charles, who has settled in Monsall, is the first to say he has met some 'brilliant' people; many of whom are fiercely protective of the young man with an easy smile who has won their hearts.

"I never realised how easily I could make friends," he said.

"I am not lonely any more."

Studying

Charles is now studying for his A-levels in English literature, government and politics, and law at Manchester College as well as playing football, working out at the gym, going to the cinema and spending time with his chums and his girlfriend.

And, after being introduced to the British Red Cross two years ago, much of his life is taken up befriending and supporting other young refugees who, through no fault of their own, have had to flee their countries to escape persecution, torture and even death.

Charles, a volunteer, is a pioneer of a project that helps youngsters who, like him arrive in Manchester frightened and alone.

On the actual day of his 19th birthday he was back at the Houses of Parliament for the second year in succession after being shortlisted for the British Red Cross Humanitarian Citizen Awards.

Last year he won and although this year he didn't, modest Charles was clearly humbled by all the fuss.

"My mother died when I was four, and my dad was killed when I was 12," he said. "They were both murdered.

"My uncle looked after me and arranged for me to escape to Britain when lawyers said I wasn't safe to remain in Cameroon.

Scared

"It was very different and I was very scared. But people were kind to me. I had time on my hands and someone put me in touch with the Red Cross."

He hasn't looked back and neither has the charity which cherishes its diplomat, as he not only supports refugees but goes into local schools and educates pupils about the plight of young asylum seekers.

He also learned First Aid and now teaches it to local groups.

Martin Tilbury, Red Cross area youth manager, said: "Charles is such a fantastic role model and inspiration to other young people and we are lucky to have his support."

Charles, who is still fighting for permanent residency, dreams of becoming a lawyer or criminologist so that he can continue to help other people, and right wrongs.

And he agreed his parents would have been very proud of him.