As three young sisters gather round together to show off a special award, it's heart-warming to see how close their bond truly is.

The framed certificate and £25 was won by middle sister Niamh Ward, aged eight, who won the Young Carer's award for the help she gives to big sister Phoebe, 12, who has cerebral palsy.

But despite being a young carer she still manages to achieve above average in all areas at school.

Niamh, of Gelham Court, Dersingham, was presented the prize by West Norfolk Mayor Barry Ayres at the Opportunity Awards which was held in the King's Lynn town hall.

The youngster said she had 'butterflies in my tummy' when she received the award.

Niamh said: 'I like looking after my sister and I like to feed her, read to her and help get her dressed. I help my mum as she hasn't got four pairs of hands.'

She added her she wore her favourite party dress to the ceremony.

Proud mum Victoria Ward, also mum to Erin, four, described the ceremony as 'emotional.'

She continued: 'I thought that I wasn't going to be able to go that evening as Phoebe had a hospital appointment in London.

'But then last minute Phoebe was poorly with a chest infection and we couldn't go, but every cloud has a silver lining.'

She explained how her youngest daughter also likes to get involved with helping Phoebe too.

She said: 'Erin is like Phoebe's legs and runs around getting things for her. But Niamh is the one that helps to feed her, give her drinks and rearranges Phoebe's legs if she's uncomfortable.'

Phoebe was born at just 26 weeks, weighing 1lb 10oz, and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 18 months old.

Do carers have enough support?

Email natalie.copeland@archant.co.uk