Her son Cameron Booth has just returned to school after another operation to correct a long-standing bowel problem.

And her mum Lillian Foster has been a tower of strength for the 29-year-old, who was pregnant with her second child, three-month-old Harry, last time Cameron fell ill.

Mrs Horspool, married to Greg, 31, has nominated Cameron, eight, for the title of Child of Courage in the Pride of South Tyneside Awards.

She has also put Mrs Foster, of Harold Street, Jarrow, forward for Carer of the Year.

Cameron was born with a twisted bowel and had surgery to correct it two days later. Mrs Horspool, of Epinay Walk, Jarrow, said: "In the following eight years, he was admitted to hospital on numerous occasions.

"In January, he was again admitted to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for surgery. One week later, he had to undergo surgery again as his stomach did not start functioning properly, and he was taken
into intensive care."

Harry was born while Cameron was in hospital, which led to Mrs Foster's help being called upon many times. Mrs Horspool said: "My mam slept overnight for six weeks at the hospital, watching Cameron for me."

Mrs Foster said any mother would do the same, but she was touched to be nominated.

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