A WINNING smile and wicked sense of humour have helped Helen Carter become a Child of Achievement winner.

She manages to be positive, despite suffering from a degenerative genetic disease.

Helen's ataxia telangiectasia, immunoglobulin defficiency and progressive lymphopenia affects her coordination and balance, which will continue to deteriorate.

Despite being unable to walk independently, the nine-year-old was nominated for the award by teachers at Wingate Junior School for her smile and positive attitude.

Helen lives in Wheatley Hill, County Durham, with parents Simon and Joy.

Her father said: "After all she has had to put up with, getting through a day with a smile on her face is a major achievement for her, really.

"She has a certain amount of shyness, but once she lets you in, you find she has a wicked sense of humour for a child."

Helen receives treatment for her disease at a number of hospitals around the North-East.