FORMER world champion boxer Amir Khan has become a Barnardo’s ambassador as the charity celebrates 150 years of supporting the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

Amir visited Barnardo’s Bay6 service in Leyland, Lancashire, this week where he spent time talking to staff and young people about their experiences.

Bay6 is a supported accommodation project for young single people aged 16 to 25 who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in the South Ribble area. Currently, 17 young people are living within this service in the Leyland area.

The Bolton fighter said: “It’s a great honour to represent Barnardo’s as it marks its 150th year. The charity’s staff and volunteers make a real difference every day to the lives of so many vulnerable children that would otherwise have no one to support or stand up for them.”

Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan said: “We’re delighted that such a high profile sports figure and role model has chosen to work with Barnardo’s. I’m sure he will inspire young people and help spread the message that incredible things can happen when we believe in children.”

Amir will present awards to Barnardo’s staff and volunteers next month to recognise the contributions they have made over the last 12 months. The awards will take place at a special celebratory event at Westminster Cathedral on December 1.

The Olympic silver medallist added: “The awards are a great way of recognising all the hard work of many people and I’m looking forward to lending my support to this event.”