TERMINALLY ill York mum Rachel Wrigglesworth has nominated her 'amazing and brave' young daughters Tia and Teegan for the Child of the Year category of our York Community Pride Awards.

Rachel, 34, of Acomb, who is suffering from leukaemia says it would mean the world to her to see her daughters recognised for their outstanding support and care.

"I have been battling leukaemia for the last seven years since my children were aged two and four and they have helped care for me," Rachel said.

"Although times have been tough they have never moaned, never complained.

"This year I found out I am terminal and Teegan, now aged eight and Tia,11, are still supporting me and helping my husband Gary care for me.

"They are both so strong and brave and the most amazing girls I could ever wish for. They keep smiling. They are my strength and it is because of them I am still battling to carry on.

“They have been brilliant with me, like a mum, helping me when I want to have a shower or put my clothes on, for example. And Gary has been fantastic as well. I don’t know what I would have done without them.

"It would mean everything to me if my daughters won an award as I am so proud of them and it would be so well-deserved. Just a reward for all they do."

Rachel of Woodlea Grove has been battling leukaemia since late 2010, with bouts of intensive chemotherapy and drugs, and a bone marrow transplant in 2013.

This led to complications including “graft versus host” disease, and to the rare development of a different form of leukaemia.

Last week after being moved by Rachel's story in The Press, a reader donated £1,000 to an online appeal to help ensure Tia and Teegan have precious memories of going out with her on memorable day trips and holidays.

A charity night is planned at Flares night club in Tanner Row for this Thursday, June 29.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press in partnership with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden.

All nominees must live in, or contribute to life in, the City of York Council area.

Three finalists from each category will be invited to the awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October, when the winners will be revealed. Entries can be submitted to York Community Pride Awards, The Press, 84-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN.

You can also nominate online at yorkpress.co.uk/communitypride

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 21.