CHARITY founder Saeed Atcha visited Buckingham Palace to collect his MBE.

The 22-year-old was presented with the award by the Duke of Cambridge.

Mr Atcha, who spent much of his teen years in and out of care and at risk of being expelled from school, is the Chief Executive of Xplode Magazine which helps young people in Greater Manchester through volunteering, jobs and skills training.

He has been awarded the MBE for his services to young people and the community in Greater Manchester.

Upon finding out he was due to receive the award late last year, the former Ladybridge High School pupil said: "I felt quite emotional when I found out. For me, receiving this is unimaginable."

Mr Atcha collected the award from Prince William, Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday afternoon.

After the ceremony Mr Atcha tweeted: "If you’d have told 15 year old me that Prince William would be giving me an MBE on behalf of the Queen, I’d have told you where to go!

"I feel so proud and my journey has not been without its challenges — some of them huge where I question my entire existence.

"Today is that proud day and proof that YOUth can lead!

"Thank you so much for all of your support - it truly means the world"

Local car dealership Williams BMW provided Mr Atcha with a BMW 5 Series car for his journey to the capital.

Head of Business at Williams Bolton, Owen Duncan said: “When we heard that Saeed was going to the Palace, we were delighted for him and wondered what we could do to make his day special. We were delighted to hand over the keys to someone who is a great ambassador for the region and does amazing work in our community.”