A BRAVE Bournemouth schoolboy has received a national award for helping his little brother cope with bleeding disorder haemophilia.

Cassius Lister, who also suffers from the condition, received a Buddy Award from The National Haemophilia Society UK during a special day out at London Zoo.

Keen footballer Cassius and four-year-old brother Jonny met TV presenters Dick and Dom at the presentation.

The national Buddy Awards recognise the vital support provided by friends, families, carers and teachers of children who have to cope with the everyday challenges that haemophilia and bleeding disorders can bring.

Jonny said: “Cassius has haemophilia like me so he understands how much it hurts when you have a bleed. He is really brave and has taught me to be brave too.”

Chief Executive of The Haemophilia Society, Liz Carroll, added: “The lack of public awareness of bleeding disorders means that the families and friends take on a great deal of responsibility for their friends and loved ones, and this often goes unnoticed.

“The Buddy Awards are a way for people with a bleeding disorder to give a very special thank you to their ‘buddy’ and simultaneously raise awareness of the condition.”

Dozens of celebrities attended the awards ceremony including Southampton footballer James Ward-Prowse, Westlife singer Kian Egan and paralympic gold medal winner Ellie Simmonds.

The arrival of James Ward-Prowse was a special treat for Cassius, a former member of the Saints Football Academy.

n Haemophilia is a rare, inherited bleeding disorder which stops the blood from clotting properly.

There are several different kinds of bleeding disorder. Haemophilia affects males but there are some conditions that affect women.