A BUDDY scheme for people with bleeding disorders saw children’s TV presenters take over Parliament.

And they were joined by Colne Valley MP Jason McCartney and 15-year-old Josh Goldspink and his mum Valerie, of Linthwaite.

The MP met Josh at the launch of the Haemophilia Society’s Buddy Award scheme yesterday.

The annual awards have been created to recognise the vital support provided by the families, carers, friends and teachers of children with bleeding disorders.

Josh, a pupil at Colne Valley High School, has been affected by the bleeding disorder haemophilia since birth.

He went to the House of Commons where TV presenters Dick and Dom raised more awareness of the condition.

Jason said: “It was great to meet a brave young man like Josh who is getting on with his life despite his condition.

“I’m already supporting the Haemophilia Society with my work on behalf of the victims of the tainted blood scandal, but the day was all about recognising the young people affected by bleeding disorders.”

As part of its work to increase awareness of the challenges faced by people with bleeding disorders, the Haemophilia Society launched its Buddy Award scheme with the help of TV presenters Dick and Dom, at a packed event at the House of Commons.

Chris James, chief executive of the Haemophilia Society, said: “The fact that most people know little or nothing about bleeding disorders can cause real problems – especially for children.

“These awards not only recognise the vital support children get from those around them but I hope they will also help more people understand what life is really like for children with bleeding disorders.”

The Society says the lack of public awareness of such disorders means that families and friends take on a great deal of responsibility for their sibling or friend.

It often goes unnoticed and the awards will celebrate the invaluable contribution they make while also drawing public attention to the plight of this vulnerable and often forgotten patient group.

The Buddy Awards will take place later this year once nominations have been submitted.