A young Perth boy was given an early Christmas treat in Dundee yesterday in recognition of the bravery he has shown in his battle against an aggressive form of leukaemia.

Douglas Rands (8) was at fashion retailer Peacocks in the Wellgate shopping centre to claim a sack full of goodies from Santa.

He becomes the first child in Scotland to benefit in an initiative run by Cancer Research UK in partnership with the chain. Just two other hearty youngsters in the UK have benefited.

The award is part of an ongoing relationship which in the past 18 months has raised more than £500,000 towards the charity’s work.

Douglas was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2003 and has shown tremendous courage in his fight against the illness and its side affects.

His dad, Marc, said, “It is wonderful to see Douglas recognised and rewarded for his bravery today.

“He has shown overwhelming courage and through all the tests, surgery, chemotherapy and losing his hair, Douglas has taken everything in his stride. He has never complained and has always gone to hospital with a happy face.

“He’s just one of the boys at school, although all his classmates look out for him and his school are very supportive and helpful.

“He’s always smiling and laughing and we are really proud of him.”