AN unlikely friendship with a man dubbed the most violent in Britain has enabled an Old Leake teenager to realise his true potential.

At the age of 11 Daniel Wilder, now 15, fought to overcome dyslexia to gain a place at Boston Grammar School where he will take his GCSEs next year.

Two years later, after Daniel became the victim of bullying, his dad Spencer wrote to notorious Charlie Bronson, with whom he had been friends in the 70s, telling him of how the youngster had taken up kickboxing to raise his self-esteem.

Former bare knuckle boxer Bronson, now aged 57, has been in prison since he was jailed at the age of 22 in 1974 for armed robbery, receiving a life sentence for hostage-taking in 2000.

Daniel explained: "My dad knew both Reggie Kray and Charlie Bronson for quite a long time. One day I got a letter from Charlie asking all about my school and kickboxing.

"He has become my best friend in the world and is like a second dad to me, he is my inspiration."

Of the high-profile prisoner he added: "Charlie is not like everyone thinks he is, he is called Britain's most violent criminal, but he is also very kind and supportive to me.

"I love getting his letters every week they make me feel special."

In his weekly letters Bronson has promised Daniel that when he is released he will become his trainer and sparring partner, but in the meantime is sponsoring him in his bid to become a champion kick boxer.

On June 12 the talented youngster, currently a brown belt, will take part in the National Kickboxing Championships in Solihull, where there will also be the selection process for a national kickboxing squad to represent the UK.

And in September he will take his black belt and will start a teaching course in December.

His dad explained: "Charlie has given so much to Daniel in terms of support, enthusiasm and kindness, which has made Daniel, in turn, a lovely, confident person."