HALTON councillors have pledged their support for a Widnes schoolboy who is collecting sleeping bags for the homeless.

Aidan Jackson was recently honoured at the Palace of Westminster after raising more than £17,000 for charity.

The 15-year-old from Francis Close, Ditton, received the British Citizen Youth Award for his commitment to help others.

The Ormiston Chadwick Academy pupil has been recognised for supporting the Olivia Alice Foundation which helps disabled children and their families.

The charity was founded in memory of his friend, 15-year-old Olivia Walker who had complex disabilities and died in 2014.

Aidan has Asperger’s and also suffers from a condition which causes him to walk on his toes.

His latest challenge is to collect sleeping bags for the homeless which he intends to distribute on the streets of Liverpool.

The appeal closes on Saturday and there are collection points across Runcorn and Widnes.

Hough Green councillors Phil Harris, Paul Nolan and Kevan Wainwright dropped off their donated bags at Hankins sweet stall in Widnes Market.

They are urging people to support the Aidan's appeal.

Cllr Harris said: “There is still time for people to donate a sleeping bag and drop it off at one of the collection points.

“No-one should be homeless and living on the streets but sadly many are and a warm sleeping bag can help those sleeping rough.

“Aidan is doing a great job helping others despite facing challenges of his own and he deserves support.’’ Collection include Nightstop Communities Northwest, Albert Rd, Widnes and HomeSmart Lettings, High Street, Runcorn.