Stephen Sutton fundraising efforts 'phenomenal'

Sir Michael Richards made the comments about the Burntwood 19-year-old as he received an honorary fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Sir Michael, an oncologist who has been the National Cancer Director in the Department of Health and was appointed Chief Inspector of Hospitals in the Care Quality Commission last year, said he had been inspired by Stephen's 'bucket list' which has so far raised £3.2 million for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

He said: "Stephen Sutton has done a phenomenal job raising an amazing amount of money for a really great charity. I've worked with the Teenage Cancer Trust for over 15 years and have the highest regard for the organisation's efforts in helping drive forward better funded care that makes a difference; such as specialist units and nurses."

It comes as Stephen settles into life back home after being discharged from hospital - just days after he posed a 'final message' thinking he had just hours left to live.

In his latest message he says he is feeling 'pretty healthy' and will be looking at a 'few new projects' in the comings weeks.

The message on his Facebook page says: "I have been feeling very good in myself and doing well these past few days. I've even had the energy to make a few appearances at local events which has been lovely, but mainly it has been a case of resting and taking things very easy at home. I am eating and drinking well which is helping to bring my strength and weight back up to a decent level and, apart from a niggling cough (which I was told to expect), I am feeling pretty healthy!

"I've still got plenty of things to keep me busy, then when I'm ready will start to take on a few new projects and media engagements- if I want to and feel up for it. But, there's no rush at all. These past few days just chilling at home have been very enjoyable.

"So, to summarise, there's not a lot to update- except that I'm doing fine! As always, everyones support has been and is hugely appreciated."