A NURSE who cares for cancer patients has reached the final of a national award for the second year.

Mother-of-two Clare Brookes, a Marie Curie nurse who cares for patients throughout the region, has been selected for England's Marie Curie/Clinton Cards Nurse of the Year 2002 title.

If successful, she will have the opportunity to raise the profile of Marie Curie Cancer Care's home nursing service, hospices and research work by becoming an ambassador for the charity's 3,000-plus English nurses.

The 36-year-old, from Seaton Carew, who was also shortlisted last year, said she was thrilled to have made it into the finals for a second time.

She said: "I am honoured to be nominated for a second time and it is a privilege to be able to represent the hard work of all Marie Curie nurses."

Later this month, Mrs Brookes will join other finalists in London for a two-day training and judging session, including media training, to help her handle interviews should she win the title.

A winner for each UK county will be announced in early May, to coincide with Nurses' Day.

The award is being sponsored by Clinton Cards. Winners will receive a weekend break for two, a £300 bursary, a Vidal Sassoon haircut, flowers and champagne.