A FIVE-year-old Ballingry boy, who was born with a rare condition, has won the Child Achievement accolade at the Kingdom FM Local Hero Awards.

Kian Rafferty, from Capeldrae Court, has bladder exstrophy, which means that his bladder is outside his body instead of being inside. The brave way he takes problems in his stride helped him win the award at Friday’s special ceremony, hosted by the radio station, and his mum Elaine couldn’t be more proud.

“I nominated him because he doesn’t let the condition get to him,” she said. “He just gets on with life. We found out on Friday at the awards ceremony that he had won, and he was loving it - as proud as punch!” The positive attitude that Kian has towards life was reflected when he did a 5k sponsored run in June to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital, where he receives treatment.

“He really enjoyed it, even though it was absolutely boiling,” said Elaine.

“I had to keep pouring water over him but he loved it.” Kian has spent a lot of time at Great Ormond Street in his short life and his family are full of admiration for the work of the doctors and nurses at the famous London children’s hospital.

Mum Elaine has been committed to raising funds for Great Ormond Street, with the 5k run the latest of these, and Kian was determined he should play his part in the fundraiser and he did brilliantly!

The proud five year-old is pictured with his award.