NOMINATIONS are being invited for the Child of Achievement Awards.

The awards are presented annually to up to 150 children who have helped others or have shown commendable courage in overcoming difficult circumstances, such as illness or disability.

Previous North-East winners include teenager Kaylee Davidson, from Washington, Wearside, the first child in the country to have a successful heart transplant.

She made medical history when, at the age of five months, she was given a heart the size of a walnut.

Kaylee, 13, was given only a 50/50 chance of survival, but has gone on to compete in the British Transplant Games and to help her mother raise funds for transplant charities.

Another award winner was Laura Frost, from Durham City, who learned to cope with the death of her parents, Michael and Janet, within four months of each other, two years ago.

She has since excelled in her school work and raised money for charity, performing voluntary work.

The 2002 Child of Achievement Awards ceremony takes place in London in February.

Individual or group nominations, such as children who have worked together on a community or environmental project, should be accompanied by supporting words and literature.

A photograph of the nominees is also required, and a doctor's letter to support medical nominations.

The age limit is 16 at the closing date of November 9.

For more information, write to Child of Achievement Awards, PO Box 86, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 9JX, or visit the website.