MODEL pupil Waahid Valli has been presented with one of his school's most prestigious and historic awards.

The 11-year-old was chosen by his classmates who took part in a secret ballot to vote for the person they thought was most deserving of the Spirit of Sharples Award.

The accolade dates back to 1956 and is given to the pupil who embodies the values and ethos of Sharples Primary School. The award — which is in the form of an old wallet — was first given out by pupils and is now a firm school tradition.

Waahid said: “I was really proud of myself and happy. I thought anyone could win the award but I was hoping it was me because so many people said they had voted for me. Thank you to all my friends who voted and to my mum and dad who kept it secret.”

Headteacher Alan Hemmings said Waahid was a star pupil who deserved the praise. He said: "He is most definitely deserving of the award, he has been a delight all the way through school. He has written a letter to put in the wallet for those who win in the future to read.”

The wallet, with the names and letters, is said to be older than the school building itself. It is thought teachers became aware of the children presenting the award in the 1970s.

Mr Hemmings added: “We have all the trophies for learning achievement and sporting achievement, and next to them this old wallet, and this one is so special and precious. The wallet is kept at school and the winner is given a trophy to keep. I would like to hear from anyone who knows any early history about the award.

“I was so pleased that Ofsted stated the children are well on the way to becoming valuable citizens and empathetic and caring individuals for Bolton.

“That is what the spirit of Sharples is.”

The first person to win the award in the 1950s was Jimmy Abbot.

Next year, to mark the 60th anniversary of the custom, a roll of honour will be produced to take pride of place in the school. The school is now trying to track down the name of the person who won the award in 1957, the only missing name.

Anybody who can help is asked to contact the school on 01204 333077.