A PARTINGTON man who turned his life around after being severely bullied will join stars like Rita Ora, Tom Hardy and Ant and Dec on the red carpet next week.

Alec McDermott, 21, has been nominated for an award at The Prince’s Trust and TK Maxx Celebrate Success Awards.

After winning the North West HSBC Breakthrough Award, Alec will attend the national final at the Palladium in London on Wednesday March 15.

The ceremony will be hosted by Ant and Dec and the event attracts stars such as Rita Ora, Tom Hardy and Alesha Dixon.

The Prince’s Trust and TK Maxx Celebrate Success Awards recognise disadvantaged young people who have overcome issues such as abuse, drug addiction, homelessness, depression and unemployment.

Alec was two when the bullying started. It continued as he grew older and became more extreme: he was kicked and intimidated, had money and possessions stolen from him, and was shot repeatedly with ball bearing guns.

He self-harmed, believing it was the only thing he could control.

“It was a time in my life I wish I could forget. For ages it felt like it was me, my sister and mum against the world – it wasn’t nice,” he said.

Alec’s father left when he was young, and when his mum met her new partner Tim, Alec finally felt like he had the father figure he’d craved.

Tragically, Tim died four years later and unable to cope, Alec made several suicide attempts and was moved to a psychiatric unit, before being sent to a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU).

But the bullying continued outside the unit and Alec became reclusive. A support service called Stronger Families recommended he try Get Started with Radio, a Prince’s Trust programme.

“I sat in the car outside for ages on the first and second day and literally forced myself to go in, but after that, it was easy,” said Alec.

“I loved it. The people were nice and respectful, I made friends, and I learned heaps.”

Alec soon became a valued member of the group and went on to complete a 12 week digital traineeship, co-wrote a drama called Harry at Reform Radio, and began volunteering at the station full time.

“My life is unrecognisable from what it used to be,” he said.

“I believe in myself and my future. I have friends I can trust, and I’m happy. Really happy.”

Ian Stuart, CEO, HSBC UK said: “We are the proud sponsors of the Breakthrough Award. Alec has done exceptionally well in developing new skills with the help of The Prince’s Trust. We wish him all the best.”