THE Bolton News Secondary Pupil of the Year is shining example to all young people.

Oliver Fielding was nominated by Melanie Hughes, assistant head of Kearsley Academy, who told how he had gone on to get a phenomenal set of GCSE results this summer — and achievement made all the more impressive because they were gained under incredibly tragic circumstances, the loss of one of his very close friends, who passed away just before his exams were due to start.

Kaine Shuttleworth's memory lives on at the school, with the library named in his honour to reflect his passion for learning to inspire pupils.

And Oliver's friend was very much in his thoughts at the award ceremony.

Miss Hughes said: "It was an extremely difficult time.

"Oliver coped amazingly well with his grief and supported others at this very difficult time.

"Oliver also gained the best GCSE results in year 11."

He gained 8A*, 2As and B.

She added: "Always polite, unassuming, and kind Oliver deserves to be recognised for his achievements."

Oliver is now continuing his studies in the sixth form at Bolton School where he enjoyed attending Ogden Physics events.

He is now enjoying his A-level studies in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology.

He hopes to go on to study Mathematics at degree level at either Cambridge or Warwick.

Oliver, who won the NW Design sponsored award, said: "We were a very close class and supported each other.

"I am really happy to receive the award, it came completely out of the blue, I didn't even know about the awards.

"It is nice that hard work is recognised."

His proud mum, Paula, who lives with his family in Kearsley, said: "I am extremely proud of Oliver.

"Kaine was one of Oliver's first friends when he started the school when we moved into the area and he will never be forgotten.

"The two inspired and pushed each other."