A SELFLESS schoolboy who helped save the life of a baby seal has received a badge of honour from one of his favourite TV shows, Blue Peter.

Tom O'Donnell, of Barrow, was recently awarded a Blue Peter badge for the role he played in rescuing an emaciated seal pup on Roa Island.

The 11-year-old, who is now the proud owner of the green Blue Peter badge, for environmental and nature work detailed his efforts in a letter to the TV show, in the hopes of being recognised for the part he played.

The St Bernard's pupil already owns six of the prestigious awards for his achievement in sports and fundraising for the local area.

Barrow boy who helped rescue 'emaciated' seal aims for Blue Peter glory

Tom's mum Vikki O'Donnell, 38, was thrilled with the personalised letter her son received from the children's TV programme which said: "It certainly sounds like you acted very admirably and we are so impressed."

Mrs O'Donnell added: "He was getting a bit nervous that it was all taking so long and thought he might not get it.

"He didn't help the seal to get the badge, he just did it without thinking and the bade was the after thought.

Barrow Salvation Army to honour member with renowned Blackburn Citadel Band

"His family are very proud of him, he only needs two more badges now and he's got them all."

Tom had been on a family day out to Piel Island back in August when he spotted the animal lying on the jetty, and became worried.

The keen cricketer and sports fan contacted the RSPCA and a local vet before sending a photo to the British Divers Marine Life Rescue who came and assisted the seal.

In his letter to Blue Peter, where he explained the incident, Tom said he felt "very proud" to have helped saved the baby seal.

The seal was taken to a specialist treatment centre for rehabilitation and was eventually reintroduced to the wild.

Council vows to campaign against "disastrous" Universal Credit to protect 'hardest pressed' Furness families