THE Press's Community Pride awards have been uncovering heart warming stories of courage and adversity from York's children since they were launched 11 years ago.

Now the search is on once again for brave youngsters who deserve praise for the way theyhave faced up with courage to life’s hardships and challenges.

Child of the Year is one of 13 categories in the Community Pride awards. The category is open to children under 12 and is sponsored by Saville Audio Visual of York, and the company is urging people to nominate the young people they think deserve praise.

Last year, the Community Pride judges faced an impossible task distinguishing between four incredible contenders for the Child of the Year.

Each one of the shortlisted entrants had showed remarkable bravery, spirit and selflessness as they faced tough challenges at a very young age.

The nominees included eight year old Ruby Holding, who underwent major surgery and gruelling chemotherapy to fight two rare brain tumours. Even though Ruby lost her sight, she showed uncomplaining bravery and happy demeanour.

Also shortlisted was Edie Palmer, eight, who was struck by meningitis as a toddler but went on to raise funds for York Hospital and was recognised for her kind-hearted dedication.

Alongside them was Oscar Hughes, eight, of Dunnington, had a brain tumour removed in an 11-hour operation earlier this year. Since then he has started fundraising for the children's cancer charity Yorkshire Candlelighters, and inspired everyone who he met with his positive attitude.

The final nominee was cheerful and much-loved seven-year-old Joel Malyon from Dunnington, who sadly passed away after suffering complications following a transplant before the awards ceremony in October.

The judges were so moved by each of the stories they awarded the prize to each one of the four children and the ceremony saw a joint presentation of four trophies to each of the children and Joel's mother Polly.

- To make a nomination for the Community Pride awards, which are sponsored by Benenden Health, go to at www.yorkpress.co.uk/pride

Nominees must live in the City of York Council area to make a contribution to the city. Shortlisted finalists will be invited to a gala awards evening at the racecourse in October.