A MALTON man has launched an online petition calling for a terminally-ill teenager who has raised more than £3 million for charity to be given a knighthood.

John Millar said he had been inspired by the actions of 19-year-old Stephen Sutton, from Staffordshire, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer three years ago and originally hoped to raise £10,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

The teenager’s appeal took off after winning support from celebrities such as comedian Jason Manford.

Mr Millar said his petition, which can be found at www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/david-cameron-call-on-the-queen-to-bestow-a-knighthood-on-stephen-sutton, had already collected 855 signatures.

He said Stephen deserved to know the nation had taken him to heart and that he would live always in people’s memories 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 said. “I do not know Stephen but I wish I did. He is a true hero and it would be an honour to address him as Sir!”