AN Autistic teenager has been honoured for helping disabled young people get into sport.

Shane Gunesh, who goes to West Lea School, in Enfield, was given the Jack Petchey Foundation Young Leader of the Year Award by charity Panthalon.

Ambassador Liz Johnson, a three-time gold medallist who has cerebral palsy, presented the 17-year-old with his prize at the Olympic Suite, in Stratford.

Shane said: “My teacher told me I was a good leader. I like to volunteer for young people.”

He transferred to the school when he was 14 where he immediately got involved with Panthalon.

But shy and lacking in confidence, he was chosen to play for the school in the Panthalon competitions, before becoming a leader.

He then joined the Enfield leadership academy where he was given the Boccia Young Officials Award, and manned the London Lord’s Taverners Disability Boccia tournament for two years.

His life was “transformed” when he became an ambassador for the Autistic Society, helping other young people in his shoes.

Father, Rajiv, said he is “pleased” his son has found activities he enjoys and is good at.

Swimmer Liz Johnson said: “What makes Panathlon different from the ‘come and have a go’ programmes, is the competitive environment it offers.

“Competitors learn a lot from having something at stake and the teamwork also helps conquer the fear.

“A day like today is heart-warming and it is so important that these award winners are role models to those who follow them.”

Matthew Key, also from West Lea school, Enfield, received the runner -up prize for the Sporting Achievement Award.