26,000 back bid to get inspirational Stephen Sutton knighted
An online petition calling for a knighthood to be bestowed on inspirational teenager Stephen Sutton has attracted more than 26,000 backers.
Well-wishers from around the world have signed up to the campaign since the 19-year-old from Burntwood attracted headlines over his uplifting fight against cancer.
The petition has won support from people as far afield as India, Cyprus, Qatar and Australia.
The teenager posted a 'final thumbs up' message on his blog from his hospital bed two weeks ago. The website has chronicled his medical condition and fundraising activities over the last 15 months and gives updates on his bucket list of 46 things he wants to do before he dies.
Stephen has since undergone surgery and been allowed home although he is still terminally ill.
The wave of support has helped raise more than £3million for the Teenage Cancer Trust, smashing through his original target of £10,000.
Petition organiser John Miller, 42, from Yorkshire, said: "I do not know Stephen but I wish I did. He deserves to know that the nation has taken him to heart and that he will live always in memory for doing something amazing.
"His legacy will benefit so many people. It is right and fitting that he be honoured in this small way. He is a true hero and it would be an honour to address him as Sir."
He is hoping to get at least 200,000 signatures on the petition.
To add your name to the knighthood petition, visit www.change.org/knightstephen
