A LITTLE boy who has been battling cancer for 13 months has received an award for his bravery.

Jack Joslin has received a Little Star Award, which celebrates the courage of children who confront the disease.

Now celebrities including Wayne Rooney and singer Emeli Sandé are backing the awards, run by Cancer Research UK, and are urging people to nominate their little stars in the run-up to Christmas.

The eight-year-old from Chandler’s Ford has also collected 1,000 coloured beads since he was diagnosed with a brain tumour in August last year – each one representing a medical procedure he has faced, including 12 operations, blood transfusions and chemotherapy.

Now in remission he is still collecting beads as doctors continue to watch his recovery.

Jack’s mum, Lisa, 43, said: “I am so proud of Jack. He is still receiving beads because he has to have blood taken as doctors keep a close eye on him. But when his treatment is finished I will be displaying his beads with pride for everyone to see how brave he has been.

“Jack and all the children who face cancer deserve recognition for what they go through.

“He is so brave and the Little Star trophy has lightened up his life. He loves it and it has pride of place in our home."

England and Manchester United captain Rooney said: “As a parent myself I find it almost impossible to imagine the impact of being told your child has been diagnosed with cancer.

“Over the years I have met lots of youngsters who are undergoing treatment for this horrible disease. Their courage, positivity and determination never fails to humble me, as does that of their parents and families.”

Relatives and friends of cancer patients or survivors under 18 who deserve special recognition can nominate their Little Stars for the award in the run-up to Christmas.

Recipients are given a trophy, a £50 TK Maxx gift card and a certificate signed by celebrities. To nominate a youngster or donate to the charity visit cruk.org/littlestar.