A PLUCKY youngster who is constantly smiling despite suffering from a serious form of leukaemia has been given a Child of Achievement award

At the age of eight, Harriet Sharp has already undergone three intensive courses of chemotherapy, lost her hair and is a regular visitor to Pendlebury Hospital in Manchester as she fights against acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

But despite all this, the youngster from Calder Avenue, Thornton, refuses to let it get her down.

Mum Jayne explained: "She is a wonderful little girl, she just takes everything in her stride and always has a happy smiling face. She is always so kind to other children and caring of others. We are so very proud of her."

Harriet's award, one of 150 going to courageous children nationwide, was presented to her during a star-studded ceremony at London's Hilton Hotel.

Sports presenter Helen Rollason also gave her a book containing messages of support from the Queen and Prime Minister Tony Blair.

She was cheered on by 30 top television stars including Gabby Roslin, Jenny Powell, Bob Holness, Keith Chegwin and Vanessa Phelps.

Harriet, who attends Royles Brook School, was the last on the list to collect her award and admitted it was a long time to wait but nice to clap all the other children.

The awards were sponsored by C&A and it was staff at the Blackpool store who nominated Harriet. They said in their nomination: "Harriet always brightens up our day and is an inspiration to us all. She is always cheerful and gives love to everybody." The staff also presented her with a £50 store voucher.

Oncologists at Pendlebury say that Harriet is responding very well to treatment but she is not in the clear as yet, having to undergo at least another five years of treatment.

During this time she will be prone to infection as Jayne said: "The next few years will be a difficult period, but we are praying she will pull through."

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