AN anti-knife charity from Clacton has been praised for its efforts by David Cameron.

The Prime Minister has written to Caroline Shearer, mum of murdered Clacton teenager Jay Whiston.

She set up the charity Only Cowards Carry, based in Jackson Road, Clacton, after Jay was stabbed to death outside a house party in Colchester in 2012.

Mr Cameron said he was delighted to give her a special UK Point of Light award.

The award recognises outstanding volunteers who do extraordinary things to help others.

The Prime Minster said: “Since the tragic loss of your son, you have shown remarkable courage.

“Your determination to do everything you can to prevent another parent having to suffer as you have is having an enormous impact on young people across Essex.”

He said Mrs Shearer should be proud that Only Cowards Carry had reached 25,000 young people since it was launched.

“I believe it is my duty as Prime Minister to hold up example of great volunteering and service as an inspiration to others,”

said Mr Cameron.

“Through your hard work and dedication, you are making communities stronger, and our country a better place.”