A trust set up in memory of a hero soldier has been recognised at a national awards ceremony.

The Dannyboy Trust (DBT) received a nod in the Members of Parliament Special Award for the Best Contribution by a Community Group category at the Kids Count Inspiration Awards.

They were nominated by MP Gordon Henderson for the good work they do for Island youngsters and received highly commended in the category.

DBT was set up by the family of Daniel Holkham, the 19-year-old rifleman from Warden who was killed while on duty in Afghanistan in March 2010.

It aims to support Sheppey children’s clubs and groups because Daniel enjoyed his involvement in local activities so much.

Since its launch, it has given out almost £7,000 to Island good causes.

Kids Count is an organisation which aims to find solutions to issues which affect children and young people in communities across the country.

The awards aims to recognise the groups and “unsung heroes” which help and inspire them.

A ceremony took place at Westminster last Tuesday which members of the trust attended.

Mr Henderson said: “The DBT is a true community resource formed by Danny’s family and fellow Islanders.

“They are dedicated to keeping his memory alive through giving young people on the Isle of Sheppey varied experiences, skills and opportunities they might not have otherwise.”

Daniel’s dad and trust chairman Rodney said it was fantastic to be nominated.

“We were so proud we had even been considered for it, but were not expecting to win anything as these awards cover the whole country and the entries are so many,” he said.

“I couldn’t believe it when I received a call to tell us we had not quite won the category but had impressed the panel of selectors and were to be awarded highly commended – we were over the moon.

“I must thank Gordon Henderson for his nomination and the Kids Count who awarded us this honour.”