The search is on to find inspirational children to be The Mail’s Christmas Stars 2018.

Today we launch our festive appeal to honour the bravest and kindest youngsters from across Barrow, Furness, Ulverston, Millom and south Cumbria.

The Mail has teamed up with Heath’s Toymaster to celebrate courageous and selfless children in our communities.

Our winners in categories for bravery and selflessness will receive an early Christmas visit at home from Father Christmas, who will present the children with toys courtesy of Heath’s Toymaster in Dalton Road, Barrow.

The 2017 Christmas Stars winners were Charlotte Munro for the bravery award and Olivia Burton for selflessness.

Vanessa Sims, The Mail’s editor, said: “Every year we have the pleasure of meeting some of Cumbria’s most inspirational children. Organising a special visit from the big man himself is a truly humbling way to reward those courageous youngsters and their families.

“The Mail is proud to once again have the support of Heath’s Toymaster.

“I’m sure we will receive many deserving entries and look forward to The Mail team making a difference to children in the local area.”

Phil Heath, the owner of Heath’s Toymaster, said: “Christmas is a time for friends and family. Our involvement reminds us of the importance of family. Heath’s Toymaster is involved because of our love for the community. If I do could only do one thing for my community, it would be this.

“Children are by far the most precious thing. It’s an honour to be able to celebrate the brave and selfless children of our area.”

Christmas Stars is open to children from Barrow, Furness, Ulverston and Millom aged up to 14. The closing date for nominations is December 19. Nominations can be made online at www.nwemail.co.uk, or by filling out the coupons published in the The Mail.