A MOTHER who has worked tirelessly to help people with meningitis after her son was struck down with the condition aged 21 months is in the running to be named Britain’s mum of the year.

Jill Jones, right, from Bowburn, County Durham, was shortlisted for Tesco Mum of the Year 2013 from thousands of entries from across the country, having been nominated by her husband, Wayne.

In 2008, Mrs Jones’ son Robbie had to have both legs amputated and lost some finger ends after being suddenly taken ill.

Since then, she has helped raise £200,000 for her son’s ongoing care, including prosthetic limbs.

Further, she has worked with three charities – the Meningitis Trust, Meningitis UK and Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) to help other sufferers.

Last month, Mrs Jones and Robbie travelled to 10 Downing Street to hand in a 18,700-signature petition calling for earlier vaccinations against meningitis.

Mr Jones said: “Jill has been strong in keeping our family together and helping our son with his needs.

She is definitely a special mum.”

On her latest achievement, Mrs Jones, 32, said: “I was over the moon and utterly shocked. I wasn’t expecting it at all. It was a lovely surprise. Obviously, I am appreciated by the family.”

Robbie, now six and a pupil at Bowburn Infants School, has prosthetic limbs including a working knee joint – allowing greater flexibility – although he still uses crutches at school.

The eighth Tesco Mum of the Year Awards promises to be a glamorous, red carpet ceremony with celebrity guests and will be held at The Savoy hotel, in London, in March. Judging will take place throughout this month, by a panel including Britmums founder Suzanna Scott, television presenters Emma Forbes and Cherry Healey and former Olympian Denise Lewis.

The winners will get a makeover, photo shoot and an award.

Mrs Jones said: “I think it will be a great night. I’m really proud just to have been put forward and shortlisted.”

For more information, visit tescomagazine.com