A Kingston schoolboy won a prestigious Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award after persuading his deputy headteacher to disco dance in the school assembly for sponsor money.

Anthony Shakes, 14, of Bedelsford Special Needs School, had cerebral palsy and was quadriplegic with associated learning difficulties, the Comet reported in 2003.

But being confined to a wheelchair did not deter him from tireless fundraising to make over the school’s sensory garden, in memory of three pupils who died in 2002.

As well as coercing deputy head Julie Wrathall to bop around the school hall to the delight of other pupils, Anthony organised, publicised, and held a garage sale to raise a total of £70 towards improving the run-down garden.

Learning support assistant Paula Lagrue, who nominated Anthony for the prestigious national award, said: “Anthony is a real go-getter. He’s consistently cheerful and, in spite of his own problems, he’s considerate to others.

“He decided to buy some daffodil and hyacinth bulbs to make the garden a brighter place for everyone.

“He’s a real inspiration and he certainly inspires all the teachers in his class, and it is fitting his tireless energy and dedication should be rewarded in such a way.”

Anthony was presented with a certificate and a Diana pin badge by Kingston director of education Patrick Leeson.

Anthony said: “When I found out I’d won the award, I was surprised and overwhelmed. I was very pleased and my family were delighted and very proud of me.

“My classmates and all the teachers were really pleased for me too.”

The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award celebrates young people who have improved the lives of others, or have overcome personal obstacles.

Anthony was one of 4,500 people in the country to receive the award.

Spokesman Tessy Ojo said: “Diana award holders have changed lives, schools, and communities through their activities. It is a unique way of enabling young people to find their confidence and to realise their true potential.”

Got memories of the borough you want to share? Email newsdesk@surrey comet.co.uk.

50 YEARS AGO: November 16, 1963 A former Colonel of the East Surrey Regiment, Lieutenant-General Sir Arthur Dowler, died at his home in Bletchingley. Sir Arthur, 68, was commissioned into the East Surreys in 1914 and served in France. He was awarded the Croix de Guerre. He retired from the Army in 1951.

25 YEARS AGO: November 18, 1988 Surprise plans to link Kingston to the District line were handed to Transport Secretary Paul Channon. Also hoped for was a Docklands-style light railway in the borough. Kingston’s estate agents were surprised to hear of the plans, but said they would definitely affect house prices.

10 YEARS AGO: November 14, 2003 Residents grumbled at being charged to visit Hampton Court Palace Gardens for the first time since 1838. The unpopular plans were given the go ahead after months of bitter opposition and legal wrangling. Visitors were charged £4 from March 2004, with no concessions for residents.