BRAVE youngsters who have battled disabilities were recognised as little stars yesterday.

Disabled children from across the region were honoured at The Children’s Foundation Stars Awards, held for the first time at the Riverside Ground, the Chester-le-Street home of Durham County Cricket Club.

Children who have endured tumours, Down’s syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and other conditions with a smile proudly received certificates and medals.

Hero siblings and a carer were also honoured.

Caroline O’Doherty, operations director of The Children’s Foundation, said: “When you read some of the nominations, it’s hard not to shed a tear but at these awards, everybody is happy and smiling.

“It’s gone really well. We had a great response this year, with lots of nominations.

“It’s so important to recognise and celebrate the achievements, not only of the children here but their families and carers.”

The Stars Awards were set up by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle in 2007, as part of his Centenary Appeal, and have since grown to involve the whole of the North-East.

Among the winners this year was Reece McDowell, aged 12, from County Durham, who is registered blind and has cerebral palsy.

After moving to Percy Hedley Special School, in Newcastle, Reece has made great progress and made many friends.

Luke Johnson, from Jarrow, South Tyneside, has been involved in the Limbs Alive research programme since he was a year old.

His participation has led to the development of therapies now being used to help other children.

Adam Bush, from Sunderland, has Down’s syndrome, autism and communications difficulties. After returning to school, Adam has made tremendous progress and was recently able to complete a day’s work experience.

In the friends and siblings category, awards went to Daniel Taylor, Victoria Topping and Cassie and Daniel Green, all from Newcastle.

Despite having a rare disorder which causes seizures, eight-year-old Daniel Taylor helps his older sister cope with her speech problems.

Brother and sister Cassie and Daniel Green have helped their family deal with their brother Charlie’s cancer, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The winner in the parent or carer category was Alison McGee, who works in Northumberland County Council’s disabled children’s team, helping to promote confidence and stability.