COURAGEOUS children whose strength and optimism in the face of adversity is an inspiration to all have been celebrated at an awards ceremony.

Thirty-one children from across the region were recognised at this year’s Braveheart Awards at St James’ Park in Newcastle on Thursday.

The children, who have bravely battled serious illnesses, received the VIP treatment from the outset, with special limousines picking them up from home and transporting them to the venue in style.

Once there, the excited youngsters and their families posed for photographs and tucked into drinks and cookies before taking their seats for the ceremony.

Bravehearts of the North-East trustee Chris Metcalfe then called each child to the stage, where BBC Look North newsreader Carol Malia and Paralympic gold medallist Josef Craig MBE presented them with their awards.

The children were then greeted by Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow who presented gifts, ranging from iPhones and laptops, to shopping vouchers, balloon rides and trips to Lego Land.

Five-year-old Freya Aither, from Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, had been counting the sleeps to the ceremony and was dressed to impress in a navy dress just like the one her mother, Rebecca Aither, was wearing.

“She loves parties,” said Mrs Aither. “She tried on five different dresses before choosing this one. It’s nice to do something to recognise how brave the children have been and everything they have been through.”

Freya was diagnosed with a brain tumour in May and has undergone surgery and chemotherapy. The impact of her surgery means she still needs regular physiotherapy, but she is getting better by the day and recently took part in her first dance recital."

Max Pedelty, from Crook, melted hearts in 2014 when he dressed up as an elf and delivered Christmas presents to children in hospital.

The six-year-old also won over the audience at the ceremony, accepting his Braveheart Award with his trademark cheeky grin.

Max was born with Down’s syndrome and was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in September 2011 when he was just one years old. He has spent many months on the cancer ward at the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle and has endured many setbacks and readmissions.

His mother, Mandy Pedelty, said: “Max has been very excited about today – he calls it Max’s party. It’s extra special for us because it’s at St James’ Park and we are all Newcastle United supporters. When we arrived Max said ‘It’s King Alan’s house’ as in Alan Shearer. That’s his grandad’s doing!”

Another award winner with a cheeky smile was Bradley Lowery from Blackhall Colliery. The five-year-old was beaming when he posed for photographs and collected his award and batman toys.

Bradley is fighting the neuroblastoma form of cancer, which returned earlier this year, after he was thought to have previously overcome the disease.

Gemma Lowery, Bradley’s mother, said: “I’m very proud. He has been through so much over the last few years and it’s so nice of people to present him with this award and buy him presents.”

Founded in 1989, Bravehearts of the North East is a charity that recognises children who have shown exceptional character and inspirational strength in overcoming adversity.

It was inspired by Joanne Gillespie, an eleven-year-old girl who endured two major operations and fought back against a reoccurring brain tumour.

Joanne turned the diary of her recovery into a book called Brave Heart, which was published in 1989 and became a source of comfort and hope to other seriously ill children.

Other youngsters recognised at this year's ceremony were Caitlin Minnis, 11, from Durham, Jake Smith, 12, from Darlington, Emily Cook, 12, from Newton Aycliffe, and Leah Hempsall, 12, from Stainton Grove, near Barnard Castle.

Leah was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and has undergone surgery, chemotherapy and radio therapy. The surgery has left her with poor vision but she is determined to live life to the full.

Jake was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last October and has spent months in hospital. As Jake accepted his award, Mr Metcalfe said: “Despite the painful and sometimes frightening procedures, Jake has continued to be a really cheerful and friendly young man.”

Caitlin has been undergoing intensive treatment at the RVI and in America for nasal phalangeal carcinoma.

Mr Metcalfe said Caitlin never complains, adding: “She has been able to help other children who have had to go to America by explaining what happens, giving them confidence to face their ordeal.”

Emily was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in July and has undergone surgery and radiotherapy. Mr Metcalfe said Emily had coped with the side effects of her treatment and medication with great courage.

After collecting her award, Emily said she had enjoyed the day and was looking forward to spending her shopping vouchers.

“I’m not sure what I will buy yet,” she said. “I like clothes, especially pyjamas.”