A CHARITY started in memory of a young girl who died after suffering an epileptic seizure has won a national award.

Abbie’s Love was presented with the Next Gold Champion Award from the charity Young Epilepsy by BBC newsreader Nicholas Owen at a ceremony in London.

The charity was set up by Richard and Tracy Clarke in memory of their daughter, Abbie, who died in 2006 from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (Sudep).

The award recognises the dedication and support the charity has shown to vital epilepsy research and providing 40 bed alarms for families with children living with epilepsy.

Mr Clarke said, “This is an amazing honour. After hearing we were nominated, we were over the moon and now to have won, it’s just incredible! This means we are definitely doing something right in our efforts to raise epilepsy awareness.

“Thanks to everyone who nominated us and Young Epilepsy for putting on such a wonderful event.”

Guests at the awards ceremony included Peter Andre, Leon Legge, Himesh Patel and Katie Hopkins.

The Young Epilepsy Champion Awards are for those who have inspired someone, made a difference to the life of someone living with epilepsy or helped to raise awareness and improve the lives of young people with epilepsy.

To nominate for the 2014 awards, people can register at youngepilepsy.org.uk