ALMOST 12 months ago Garred Simpson suffered a fractured skull which led to the paralysis of one side of his face.

If there is no improvement in the next year doctors say the damage will be permanent.

But the 11-year-old, who has been nominated for our Child of Courage Award, has kept his sense of humour and is determined to smile again.

His nana, Margaret Farnworth, who nominated Garred said: "When I asked him what he wanted for his birthday next month he said 'I'd just like to get my smile back.'

"He is always laughing and very cheerful. Some children go into themselves and are frightened of what people might say, but not Garred."

The youngster's life was changed suddenly when he was going to the fair with friends. As he crossed Carr Hall Road, Nelson, where he lives, he was struck by a Vauxhall Astra.

His skull was fractured in the accident and a facial nerve damaged which caused paralysis in the left side of his face.

Garred underwent a six-hour operation and had to adapt his eating and drinking because he had no control over the left hand side of his face.

The accident also coincided with Garred starting at Fisher More High, Colne, but he did not let his disability hamper him. At his previous school, St Thomas' in Barrowford, he had been known as a comedian and used his paralysis to make his new friends laugh by rolling his eyes around.

Mrs Farnworth, 67, of Orton Court, said: "He never complained or cried. He cheerfully accepts it and just gets on with life."

Garred's dad Michael, 53, said: "The specialist said it can take up to two years to improve but if it doesn't do so in that time then his face will always be as it is.

"But he is a confident boy who will make friends with anyone and he will cope."

Garred is one of several youngsters nominated for the Child of Courage Award. You can nominate your choice for the prize on our wedsite: www.thisislancashire.co.uk or by completing a nomination form.