TWO North-East youngsters were among Britain's bravest children who gathered last night for a ceremony to reward them for their courage in fighting illness, tragedy and disability.

In total, 150 children met at a London hotel to be given Child of Achievement awards by television celebrities.

Kaylee Davidson, 13, of Washington, Tyne and Wear, was Britain's youngest recipient of a donor heart when she was five months old.

She has since competed in the British Transplant Games, managing to attend the ceremony despite suffering from flu earlier in the week, which confined her to a hospital bed.

She said: ''I was really nervous, but it was a really good moment being there on stage and meeting all these people.''

Laura Frost, 16, of Carrville, County Durham, was nominated for bravely settling in with her foster family after both her parents died.

Despite the trauma she has raised more than £1,000 for charity, and is in the process of having a book published about ghosts.

She said: ''I am really thrilled, and I was really surprised to be nominated.

''I have managed to make a new life for myself with my new family and I have tried to be a normal teenager again.''

Patrons John Major and Bob Holness were joined by celebrities from television, including Gaby Roslin, Philippa Forrester and Blue Peter presenters Liz Barker and Matt Baker.

Falklands war veteran Simon Weston was also present.

Mr Holness said: ''Every year we see very brave children. But the difference from nowadays to 20 years ago is the children are less self-conscious.

''They know the TV cameras are there and they know that other children will hear about what they have done and what they have achieved.

''They are a great example.''