AN INCREDIBLE youngster has been honoured for her work supporting health charities – despite undergoing four open heart surgeries by the age of three

Chanel Murrish, of Seaham is one of 24 children from across the UK who have been recognised by the British Citizen Youth Awards (BCYA).

The youngster was honoured for her amazing efforts at a formal presentation held at the Palace of Westminster.

Chanel was diagnosed with a rare medical condition – hypoplastic left heart syndrome with intact atrial septum – while she was still in the womb, meaning she would be born with just half a functioning heart.

Her parents, Fay and Micheal, made the extremely difficult decision to have doctors perform surgery on Chanel minutes after her birth, becoming the youngest patient in the world to undergo the procedure.

Despite enduring three further open heart surgeries and also suffering from a stroke and cerebral palsy, Chanel is bravely battling on and, with the help of her mum, has set up a Facebook page to chart her story and raise awareness of congenital heart defects.

In addition, Chanel regularly takes part in fundraising events to help bring a smile to the faces of families and children going through difficult times. She has spent every Christmas since being born handing out gifts to patients at the Newcastle Freeman Heart Unit and has also raised money for charities including The British Heart Foundation and The Children’s Heart Fund.

Mrs Murrish said: "We were so pleased for Chanel when we heard she would receive her medal. She’s a little star and, despite everything she’s been through, she keeps on smiling and is trying to help others going through similar experiences."

Chanel received her BCYA medal from Ashley Banjo, creative director and lead dancer of Diversity, whose dance troupe won the third series of Britain’s Got Talent.

He said: "I am honoured to be able to play a part of the BCYA in October at the Palace of Westminster. What a fantastic way to recognise these young people that have made a difference to their communities up and down the UK. These inspirational young people are making a difference and encouraging other young people to do the same.’

Eric Thompson, store director of Specsavers in Seaham, says: "As a partner of the BCYA, it is always uplifting to hear about the amazing and selfless acts performed by youngsters both within our community and across the UK.

"Whether it be raising money for charity or helping those in need, we want to grow awareness of these achievements and inspire the next generation of children to make a similar positive impact on society."