This year we have run stories on children who have shown courage, bravery, kind-heartedness, integrity, innovation and triumph over adversity.

But we know there are more out there, more children who deserve to be celebrated, who deserve a chance to step into the spotlight.

So this week we are launching our annual Champion Children awards and want you, our readers, to nominate a special child who you think should be given the chance to shine.

The awards don't have categories. Nominations can be for anything, from exemplary academic achievements, to fighting illness or even helping in the community. It can be whatever makes that child a hero in your eyes.

Last year brave Billy Lynch, of Dorman Avenue, Upton, was nominated for his courage after facing three major operations for his breathing and heart function during the two first years of his life.

Luke Barber, of Old Mill Close, Hemsworth, was also among the champion children of 2008. Little Luke, who was just 15 months at the time of last year's awards, was nominated after being born with a hole in his heart.

Other children to win prizes included Dylan Slaughter, 12, of Newstead View, Fitzwilliam, Shannon Danby, 12, of Cross Street, Upton and Oliver Peace, 16, of Richmond Road, Upton.

If you would like to nominate a special child as a champion all you have to do is write a letter explaining why that youngster stands out from the crowd. Include your name, address and phone number, and contact details for the child's family if they are different.

Post your entry to Lisa Bradley, Champion Children 2009, Express House, Southgate, Wakefield, WF1 1TE or e-mail lisa.bradley@wakefield express.co.uk by Friday November 6.

A panel of judges will sit after the closing date and choose the youngsters who will become our Champion Children.

They will be invited to attend the awards ceremony with their family at Wakefield Theatre Royal on Friday December 11.

For more information call Lisa Bradley or Liz Allen at the Wakefield Express on 01924 375111.