28850/2TEENAGER Jason Doel has received an international award to mark his dedication to Larkrise Community Farm in Trowbridge.

The 15-year-old Matravers School pupil was presented with a Lions Club International Young Leader in Service Gold Award at the farm on Monday.

Jason works at the farm on a placement as part of his school curriculum, but also spends much of his free time there.

To qualify for the award Jason had to clock up 100 hours community service within a 12-month period and staff have been impressed with his commitment to the animals.

Westbury Lions president Ken Alford, who gave Jason his certificate, said: "He seems to be very dedicated to the farm.

"He's got one particular pet, a blind sheep called Little Mo, which he says is his favourite."

On the farm Jason's tasks include feeding, re-bedding, mucking out and changing the animals' water.

But with the farm having to relocate further along West Ashton Road, he has also done his bit to fund the move raising £300 through a non-uniform day.

Jason started attending the farm last year to help deal with his behavioural problems at school.

Westbury mayor Horace Prickett said: "This lad has been a pain in the butt anywhere else he goes except on the farm so hopefully this will help him to change."