FORGET all the bad publicity about teenage youths.

Quick-thinking James Struk is a 15-year-old with a future.

When the Dalton youngster spotted a man stealing a radio from a car in Moldgreen, he immediately told the owner and gave such a good description of the thief to police that they managed to arrest him.

It turned out the man was a prolific thief, so James may well have stopped many other people from becoming victims.

His proud mum Jennifer said: "We're very proud of James and what he did on the day. He's a really good lad, sensible and good natured.

"He delivers the Weekly News, loves sports - especially football - and enjoys school."

James, who attends Almondbury High School, loves drawing - particularly cartoons - and also enjoys working with his hands. He is considering a career in joinery.

He lives with mum Jennifer, dad Stephen and sisters Vicky, 18, and six-year-old Charlotte.

Last December James received a divisional commander's Certificate of Merit from Kirklees police commander Chief Supt Barry South.

Chief Supt South said: "It's extremely important to pay tribute to those who have gone beyond the call of duty and to recognise acts of bravery."

James's accurate description ensured officers knew who he was talking about and one of the suspects was arrested the next night.

He was eventually charged with more than 20 car crime offences.