Tony Hudgell, a six-year-old who lost his legs after suffering abuse as a baby, has been awarded the Pride of Britain Good Morning Britain Young Fundraiser Award. The surprise presentation was made by Ant and Dec at Hamleys toy shop in London, where the duo disguised themselves as life-sized Nutcracker soldiers before revealing the award.
Tony raised over £1.5 million for the hospital that saved his life by walking 10km in 30 days on his prosthetic legs and crutches. He told the presenters: “I am feeling really proud I have won this award. I was really happy when I saw it was Ant and Dec – I’ve always wanted to meet them.”
Tony was just 41 days old when he was admitted to hospital with multiple fractures, sepsis and organ failure after being abused by his birth parents. He was not expected to survive. Foster carer Paula Hudgell, now his adoptive mother, took him in and he thrived despite having both legs amputated at age two.
Paula said: “He’s proved to be a really strong and inspirational little fighter. We were immensely proud of him winning the Pride of Britain award – for him to know he has the whole nation behind him.” She added that the family never expected their little boy to win such an accolade.
