A young kickboxer has been recognised as a hero at the St Davids Awards 2020.

Tyler Ford is not your average 12-year-old.

He has nine World Kickboxing Champion accolades, is a triple gold medallist in the World Martial Art Games and was the youngest person ever to be inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame, at the age of eight.

Tyler is the Welsh Amateur Boxing Association national boxing Champion and British Mixed Martial Arts Champion and has won more than 200 gold medals in international competitions.

Tyler manages to juggle his kickboxing and school work with charity work, being an ambassador for Bullies Out and Bully Beware and volunteering to help other children, hospitals, and the RSPCA centre.

He gave his World Champion gold medal to one of his young fans in hospital and raised funds for a specially adapted wheelchair so the child could leave his hospital bed.

Tyler, whose family are from Ammanford, is a pupil at Pony Y Brenin Welsh School in Gorseinon.

The winners of Wales' national awards were announced online by First Minister Mark Drakeford on Wednesday.

This year's awards were originally scheduled to be held in March but were postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In a message to all the recipients, the First Minister said he hoped the "everyday but extraordinary" winners will find comfort in their recognition.

Mr Drakeford said: "What is most captivating is that all of our nominees think their actions are nothing to sing about. Well they are.

"They are everyday people doing extraordinary things that have helped to change lives for the better.

"I am honoured to recognise them in our national St Davids Awards.

"I have chosen Gareth Thomas for my special award as he is a role model for people of all ages, but particularly young people.

"He has been open and honest about his sexuality and his HIV status and his story has been inspiring.

"His approach will help break down barriers and stereotypes, increase understanding and will help others in a similar situation to never be ashamed of who they are."

Tyler and Gareth weren't the only sportsmen recognised at the awards, as Alun Wyn Jones was also recognised as Sport Award.

He led the Welsh rugby team to the Six Nations Grand Slam and the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup.

With 134 caps, he is Wales’ most capped player and is one of only seven players who have beaten South Africa, Australia and New Zealand while touring these countries with the Lions.