A SPECIAL mum has won a makeover at Darwen Markets after being nominated by her children.

Joanne Graves, of Ivinson Road, was nominated for the Mother’s Day competition by her daughter Caitlin.

Mrs Graves, 31, who also has two sons Brandon, 14, and Leo, seven, deserved to win because ‘she always puts people before herself’ and is very ‘supportive’, said Caitlin.

The competition was launched last month by Darwen Markets bosses on the back of a successful Father’s Day event last year.

Children were urged to nominate their parents, explaining why they deserved to win and what made them special.

Mrs Graves, a care assistant at Birch Hall Residential Home, was treated to an extensive pamper session and received an entirely new wardrobe and goody bags from traders on the market.

Eleven-year-old Caitlin’s letter, which melted judges’ hearts, said: “I would like to recommend my mum for this treat because she is one of the nicest people you will meet.

“She always puts people before herself and no matter how upset she is she will still listen and understand.

“Also it would be nice to just let my mum have a treat and enjoy herself and relax.

“So I hope I win the competition and will be able to tell my mum the good news.

“I will list some things that my mum has.

“She always listens, she is very supportive, always happy, never gives up and she puts other people first.

“She makes sure that everyone is happy, always does the right thing, makes sure everyone around her is happy and although she goes through a lot she is always making sure that me and my brothers are okay.

“So I hope we win and I hope I have shown how much I love my mum.”

Mrs Graves said: “When I found out, it was a big surprise and it made me so proud.

“It is just like Caitlin to do something like this. She has such an imagination.

“I really have been spoilt this year as I got all my cards and chocolates on Mother’s Day and now this.”