MILLIONS of TV viewers will tune into the BBC's Animal Awards programme tonight to see a 13-year-old Kent boy praised for his animal welfare voluntary work.

Kris Stevens, from Gillingham, is the youngest marine life medic in the United Kingdom and is a member of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue organisation. He has been involved in a number of rescues, including a dolphin at Otterham Quay in Rainham and a porpoise in Upnor, near Strood.

The tribute to Kris will be paid by presenter Gaby Roslin. The youngster said: "It will be strange to see myself on TV but I'm looking forward to it. All my friends and family are going to be watching."

Kris is a student at the Howard School at Rainham.