AN inspirational young Bankie who has battled through severe illness and overcome bullying to start his own business is among those being honoured at this year's Pride of Scotland Awards.

Jack Smyth, 26, has been awarded the Prince's Trust Young Achiever Award after launching 'Salvaged Metal Art'.

Jack was born premature and was only days old when he suffered a bleed in his brain. 

He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and hydrocephalus with doctors believing he would never walk or talk. Jack underwent numerous operations as a child. 

Growing up and going to college, Jack felt he could do everything his peers did but often found others felt his disability stood in the way.

After starting a vehicle maintenance course, Jack faced another challenge when he became the target of bullying. 

His self-esteem plummeted and it became challenging for him to continue the course. 

Around this time, Jack's uncle taught him how to weld, sparking his drive to start a business combining his love of cars with his talent for art. 

The Prince's Trust Enterprise programme supported Jack to build the knowledge and confidence to launch 'Salvaged Metal Art'.

Jack creates products including wine racks, floor lamps, and sculptures using old car parts. 

The young Bankie is also passionate about raising awareness of the experiences of young people living with disabilities and health conditions.

He enjoys helping make a difference through his advocacy work and is committed to showing everyone that having a disability shouldn't mean you can't achieve your dreams. 

Jack is one of ten winners in the 2022 awards,.

The ceremony will be hosted for the second year by actress Elaine C. Smith and new host comedian and writer Sanjeev Kohli. 

It will be broadcast on STV in July and include an exclusive performance by Scottish musical duo Saint PHNX, celebrate ordinary people doing extraordinary things and will see a group of awe-inspiring Scots being recognised for their outstanding achievements during a glittering red carpet ceremony.