THE search has begun to find inspirational children to be the North-West Evening Mail's Christmas Star 2016.

Today we launch our festive appeal to celebrate the area's bravest and kindest youngsters.

The Evening Mail has again team up with Barrow's Heath's Toymaster to honour courageous and selfless children in our communities.

The young winners receive a surprise visit at home from Father Christmas who presents them with beautiful toys courtesy of the Heath's stores in Dalton Road. We also host a special Christmas gathering with Father Christmas for nominated children.

James Higgins, editor of the Evening Mail said: "Christmas Star is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the great bravery and true kindness shown by children in our communities.

"As demonstrated by our search for the Switch-on Stars last month, there are many inspirational children and young people in our area. The most difficult part will be selecting the winners."

Phil Heath, the owner of Heath's Toymaster, said: "A big part of our business is Christmas and children is what Christmas is all about. I am very proud to take part in Christmas Star again this year."

Our Christmas Stars for bravery last year were siblings Connie and Joe Elson, of Cark, who have a rare and incurable genetic condition.

The kindness winner was selfless and ultimate big brother Oscar Holt, with his little brother Jasper, who has life-limiting conditions, also being honoured for his bravery.

Nominations for Christmas Stars 2016 are open to children up to 13 years who are from across Furness, Millom, Ulverston and the south Lakes.

Children can be nominated by filling out the digital form (below) or by using the coupons printed in the Evening Mail.

This year nominations will close of Friday December 16.

Nominated children are featured in the Evening Mail in the run up to the Christmas Stars being selected.

*See the Christmas Star 2015 winners article and videos here - Christmas Stars honoured by Santa