THE parents of a Galashiels Scout with ADHD hope others will be inspired after the youngster won a prestigious award.

After weeks of working hard to complete an array of challenges and tasks, Blair Valentine took home the Reiver Award at the Gala Scout Group annual general meeting last month.

The 10-year-old, who attends St Peter’s Primary School in Galashiels, received the award in recognition of his hard work after being nominated by numerous members of the Scouts.

Proud parents Dave and Mandy now hope their son’s success story will inspire other parents of children with ADHD.

The youngster was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in July 2013 at the age of six.

Blair’s mum Mandy told the Border Telegraph: “We’re so proud of him, Blair has worked very hard to get where he is, and we want others to know that just because a child has ADHD, it shouldn’t hold them back from going on to do great things.

“Blair gets especially inspired when hearing that celebrities have the same condition as him.

“Until we looked into it, we had no idea just how many well-known people were also affected by it. We hope that by Blair getting this award, it encourages other parents who may hear about our son, and may also have a child with ADHD, to get involved in a group like the Scouts.”

Blair’s dad Dave added: “The Scouts have been very accommodating with Blair, and we can’t thank them enough for their huge support.”

According to NHS UK, symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child’s circumstances change, such as when they start school. Most cases are diagnosed when children are between six to 12-years-old.

Its estimated that ADHD affects about 10 million people around the world.

Celebrities such as comedian Jim Carrey, Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, singer Justin Timberlake and celebrity chef Jamie Oliver are all known to have the condition.

Chairwoman of Gala Scout Group, Cheryl Scott said: “Blair was presented with the Reiver Award by former Scout Leader Stewart Bell and his son Chris at the Gala Scout Group AGM on May 23.

“He was nominated by numerous members of the Scouts in recognition of the way he applied himself to achieve the Chief Scout Silver Award, well done Blair!”

For more information on Gala Scout Group, visit: borderscouts.org.uk/groups/galashiels-scout-group/