A WESTHOUGHTON boy who is being educated at home by his mum has won a national competition for schools.

Matthew McArdle, aged 12, who suffers from Aspbergers Syndrome, a mild form of autism, has overcome learning difficulties to win the competition.

Matthew worked for more than 18 hours on his project on how healthy eating can prevent illness.

Proud mum Karen Marsh, said Matthew was "thrilled to bits" after winning the Challenge Award which is given for overcoming a specific difficulty. He gets £60 for himself and a further £100 which is to be spent on books and educational equipment.

Mrs Marsh, of Chorley Road, spotted the competition for schools and asked if Matthew could enter. He took part in the special needs section.

"It is an astounding achievement. I am absolutely delighted," said Mrs Marsh. "He has worked really hard and it is all his own work with a little bit of guidance from me.

"It was not easy for him but he was determined to do well and really enjoyed doing it."

Part of the project involved writing a poem, which Mrs Marsh said was very emotional, and also some drawing which Matthew finds very difficult, but he persevered to get it just right.

Mrs Marsh said Matthew was in mainstream education until last October but has been taught at home since then and is making good progress.

"It's the best thing we did. It's brilliant how much progress he has made," she added.

She says he still has lots of contact with other children and takes part in various activities.

Matthew is a dedicated Bolton Wanderers fan and intends to spend his prize money on next season's strip.

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