Published Date:
19 November 2009
By Emma Lidiard
A 12-year-old boy has received a national award for his campaign against bullying.
James Buckley, of Greetland, was presented with the Diana Award for anti-bulling at Halifax Town Hall by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Yorkshire, John Brennan, and the Mayor of Calderdale, Arshad Mahmood.
James's family was there to see him receive his certificate for raising awareness about bullying and starting a business that provides schools with an anti-bullying package.
The young entrepreneur funded his business by persuading James Cann to invest £5,000 when he appeared on TV's junior version of Dragon's Den.
Three years on, James's business is still going strong with one school having just placed an order for 5,000 anti-bullying stickers.
James has also written 16 fictional books based on children's experiences of being bullied.
He said: "It's very important to raise awareness about bullying. Every school has it. There is always someone who wants to be top dog." Another passion for James is dancing and it was his dance teacher, Zoe Cook, who nominated him.
The Vice Lord Lieutenant said: "It's a terrific achievement."
The Mayor, Arshad Mahmood, said James's work had helped highlight bullying in Calderdale.
He said: "He has done a lot for his fellow students and now we have to work together to tackle this problem."
As well as dancing, James has also made his mark as an actor.
He has just finished playing the Artful Dodger in Oliver! at The Victoria Theatre and has also appeared in the BBC's Robin Hood.
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Last Updated:
19 November 2009 2:38 PM
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Source:
Evening Courier Main
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Location:
Halifax