A TEENAGER who spoke up about being bullied met David Beckham to mark the success of a national campaign.

Jess Sparrow, a pupil at the County High School in Leftwich, met the England football captain last Tuesday when he presented her with the millionth 'Beat Bullying' wristband to mark the end of the successful campaign backed by Radio One.

The blue wrist bands were launched in November, and the first 100,000 were snapped up within just 36 hours of the launch after quickly gaining celebrity support from footballers like Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard and singers Bono, Kelly Holmes, Busted, Natasha Bedingfield and Jennifer Lopez.

They have been worn by youngsters and celebrities to make a stand against bullying.

The campaign was spearheaded by Radio One's breakfast DJ Chris Moyles and Jess told her mum Diane Davies about being bullied after hearing his show.

Jess was selected to meet the football superstar after her mum e-mailed the station to say thanks as the campaign had made her daughter come forward about the problems she had been facing.

Jess travelled down to Leicestershire with her mum to meet the Real Madrid player, who took time out from training with the England squad to present her with the band - the last one. Schools Minister Stephen Twigg was also on hand for the presentation.

Jess, 13, from Lostock Gralam, said: 'I can't believe a few weeks ago my life was so different, so miserable, but the Beat Bullying campaign wristbands really made a difference.

'Every time I see someone wearing one, I feel I am not alone, they are supporting me, and to be there with David Beckham was fantastic. I hope no-one has to suffer bullying ever again.'

Becks commended Jess on her bravery in the face of school bullies. He said: 'It's a great honour to be asked to present this millionth Beat Bullying band. This is a cause which is close to my and every parent's heart. Bullying is something we all have to stamp out.'

Jess has now been selected to become a mentor to try and stop anyone else being bullied. Diane said: 'Jess was mentally bullied at school over the past five months, but she listened to Radio One and she heard them going on about this campaign and told me as a result.

'Jess and I went down and had a fantastic time, he was lovely to her, and she got a signed England shirt.

'Something positive has come out of it. I think the campaign has really made a difference.' Mr Twigg said the Beat Bullying campaign had generated an overwhelming response from young people who say enough is enough.

He added: 'By making this stand young people have shown their determination to stand by their friends and beat bullying in schools. We will continue to support all young people in our drive against bullying and all forms of bad behaviour in schools.'