CHILDREN who have shown bravery, kindness and initiative are to be celebrated with an award.

The Asda supermarket in Bishop Auckland has chosen five nominations for its Kids Local Hero award, for youngsters who have made a difference to their community.

Many young people were nominated for the efforts they make in fundraising for local causes, their contributions to the community, or for their determination in overcoming difficulties.

Tabitha Willis, 16, from Stanhope, decided to raise money to provide wheelchair access to her local church.

Joint nominees Kayleigh Sanderson and Leanne Eddy, from Bishop Auckland, staged numerous fundraising events for the town's hospice.

Two other joint nominees, Laura Watson and Gemma Dalton, both 12, from Wearhead, raised money to build a play area in their village.

Rachel Fuller, nine, from Shildon, has been fundraising for her home town's community centre, on the Jubilee Estate.

Samantha Emerson, six, from Wolsingham, was nominated for the courage and determination she has shown after a surgical frame was fitted to her foot.

She has spent the last five months in a wheelchair, but continues going to school and carrying on life as normal.

There will be a presentation for all the youngsters on September 5, when the winner will be announced.