A YOUNG carer who is an inspiration to others has been rewarded for efforts in striking a balance between life at school and caring for her disabled mum.

Liselle Hollin, 12, of Abbotts Croft, Whalley, helps out her severely disabled mum Wendy, 36, who has no legs and only one fully formed arm.

In recognition of her efforts as a carer and the way she is becoming more outgoing at school, staff at St Augustine's Catholic High School, Billington, put her forward for the Joy of Life award run by Salford Catholic Diocese.

Out of 12 finalists from Lancashire, Liselle scooped the prize at a ceremony at Salford Cathedral. Liselle was initially nominated for the community and service award aimed at recognising the efforts of inspirational youngsters.

Along with her brother Blaydon, five, Liselle helps out around the home and aids her mum, who is confined to a wheelchair.

Despite her disability, Wendy remains very independent and is able to drive the children around in a specially adapted car.

Wendy said: "Liselle is becoming more outgoing and is such a helpful girl in general. She's just a very considerate girl. She helps me along with her younger brother but to be honest it's more about her attitude and the way she goes about things."

She said the reasons for her disability were unclear and it had been a big decision to have children in the first place.

She said: "My then husband and I went for genetic counselling to see whether we'd pass it on or not.

"I wanted children but wouldn't have wished these disabilities on anyone else. I don't have a bad life but I wouldn't have wanted my children to have this condition."

Deputy head at St Augustine's, Robert Aston, said: "When Liselle started here she was very quiet and timid but has started to blossom and become confident and join in with groups. She's very caring and gentle and displays the qualities we look for."