A TEENAGER who took over caring for her family after her mother was diagnosed with cancer has been knighted -- at a East Lancashire theme park.

Josie Louise Lawton, 13, from Colne, was one of six East Lancashire youngsters to be declared a 'knight in shining armour' at Camelot Theme Park, near Chorley.

The search by the theme park, set out to find children who have overcome personal difficulties, tried extra hard at school, or spent time helping others.

Josie Louise was given the title after looking after her family when her mum was diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Josie is the eldest of five children, with another brother or sister on the way.

After her mother was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, Josie helped to run the family home, cooking, cleaning and comforting her younger brothers and sister when her mum went into hospital.

Kirsty Lawton, Josie's mum, said "Seeing Josie knighted for all her hard work both at home and at school has been such a treat not just for her but for all the family.

"It has given me the chance to thank her for all her love and support over the years."

Josie Louise overwhelmed organisers with her maturity and by the way she coped so well during her mum's illness.

As well as her help with her family, she has also jumped up two sets at school as a result of her determination and hard work.

Three children from Burnley were also knighted at the event.

Marcus Palmer, 13, and sisters Kirsty, 11, and Zoe, six, were nominated by their teacher for the awards for their exceptional bravery and ability to cope in difficult circumstances.

The children lost their mother to meningitis just before Christmas and have coped extremely well dealing with such a big change in their lives.

Their father, Mark, said: "The children have been wonderful during this really hard time.

"I am very proud of them and seeing them knighted on Saturday was such a treat not just for them but for all the family."

Sandra Dempsey, Camelot's Marketing Manager, added: "The day was a truly magical experience for all those involved.

"The courage and selflessness of all the children nominated has been amazing. The search unearthed some truly remarkable stories and the look on the children's faces as they received their knighthoods will be a picture that not many of the guests will forget."

Thisislancashire's special Pride of East Lancashire section...