The 15-year-old, of Canal View, lost his much-loved uncle Wayne Palmer to cancer last year, aged just 33.

And the keen sportsman has been determined to make a difference ever since.

Nathan said: "My uncle had cancer for two years. He was like a second dad to me and was always there if I needed him.

"After he died I saw what it did to everyone in the family and I wanted to do something to help. I asked Mr Brew, our Principal at the Academy, if there was a charity I could raise money for and he suggested the Bluebell Wood children's hospice appeal.

"I had a trial with Scunthorpe United at the time so I'd got myself really fit for that," he added. "It made the run easier but we set off early in the morning and it was very cold. After just one mile I wasn't sure if I could do it but I carried on."

Nathan, who plans to apply for the Great North Run when he turns 17 and complete the Nottingham Marathon aged 18, ran the eight mile route from Kirk Sandall Park to his home alongside a family friend, while dad Allan cycled in tow.

The youngster was later given a rousing reception by his Academy colleagues in assembly, where principal Ian Brew presented him with a framed certificate for raising £365.

"Nathan is a young man with a big heart," said Mr Brew. "He came up with this idea himself because he wanted to do what he could to help people who had suffered as his uncle and family had.

"We often hear about young people causing trouble but far more are using their lives in a positive way and setting a fine example to others. Nathan is one of those and we are very proud of him."