WORCESTERSHIRE residents are being encouraged to nominate courageous children battling cancer for an award, as new figures show the number of children dying from the disease has fallen.

The Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens says the new figures offer increased hope of surviving the disease as the number dying from cancer nationally has dropped by 24 per cent in the last decade.

In 2005 the figure was 330, but due to better treatments this has now declined to around 260 deaths a year.

Around 150 children in the region are diagnosed with cancer annually, but survival for children’s cancers has tripled since the 1960s and three quarters of children with cancer are now cured.

Jane Redman, the charity’s spokesperson for Worcestershire, said: "It’s hugely encouraging to see that, thanks to research, we’re losing fewer and fewer young lives to the disease.

"But we must make faster progress to ensure more children survive and can lead a full life after their diagnosis.

“Cancer has a devastating effect on youngsters. Treatment can last for months or even years, forcing children to show bravery beyond their years."

The charity has launched its annual Star Awards, which celebrate the courage of children with cancer.

Relatives and friends of young cancer patients or survivors who deserve special recognition, are being urged to nominate them.

The awards are open to all under-18s who have cancer or who have been treated for the disease in the last five years.

There is no judging panel for the awards, run by the charity and TK Maxx.

Recipients receive a unique trophy, a certificate signed by celebrities and a £50 TK Maxx gift card.

Among the celebrities supporting the awards are Wayne Rooney, singer Emeli Sande, Strictly Come Dancing stars Kevin and Karen Clifton, and children’s TV presenters Justin Fletcher and Mister Maker.

Jane added: "It is a privilege to be able to recognise their courage with a Star Award and we would like to encourage anyone who knows an inspirational child to nominate them now.”

To nominate a child for an award or to make a donation visit cruk.org/kidsandteens.