KIND-HEARTED children who have been toiling behind the scenes as carers and helpers have been rewarded for their efforts.

Bullion Lane Primary School in Chester-le-Street decided to hold its own good citizens' awards in recognition of the work pupils did in the community.

School governor Jackie Stevens said: "A lot of children get certificates and academic achievement is recognised, but the Government is trying to do something about citizenship. We put together a proposal and got Chester-le-Street Council and police involved in the initiative and the idea was to get people to nominate children."

Seven children were presented with their awards at the school's recent annual meeting, which was attended by Chester-le-Street District Council chairman Bill Laverick.

Becky Cooke, seven, was nominated for helping to look after her brother, who has cerebral palsy, by helping bath and feed him.

Several children were nominated for helping their grandparents.

Lindsey Liddle, ten, was chosen for helping her disabled grandmother by cooking, baking and pushing her wheelchair and for raising money for charity every year.

Six-year-old Ben Scott was also nominated for helping his grandmother, who suffers arthritis, with housework and meals, as was David Carr, seven, who helps his grandparents in the garden and the house.

Five-year-old Callum Forsyth was put forward for his help around the house and even stripping wallpaper.

His grandmother Margaret Forsyth, who nominated him, said: "Most of all he cheers me up when I feel down. He's a little boy with a big heart."

Lauren Engleby, ten, not only helps with domestic chores, but also takes care of neighbour's children and grandchildren and every weekend gives up her bed for her 78-year-old disabled grandmother.

Lyle Grimwood, nine, was nominated by his scout leader for helping increase membership of the beavers and scouts and helping to run them.