A young carer from Watford, who took on the responsibility of his household while his mother battled cancer, has been nominated for an award.

James Waldron, of The Gossamers, has been nominated for the Citygate Young People of the Year award, which is set up to highlight the tireless work of young people across the county.

Now in its seventh year, the contest offers £2,000 for winning entrants.

As well as suffering from Crohn’s Disease, over the last three years Kelly Waldron has fought both cervical and breast cancer.

She has to make regular visits to a specialist hospital in London, sometimes staying overnight.

Her son James does the family shopping, cooking, household chores and takes his younger brothers to school, the dentist and medical appointments.

The 15-year-old said: “I do it because I love my mum and my brothers and sister.”

Ms Waldron said: “James is my best friend and rock. I would not have got through some of my difficult times without his love, care and help.

“He has had to grow up so fast because of the responsibilities that he has taken on, voluntarily and willingly. He has never complained. I’m extremely lucky to have him around.”

James also looked after his two brothers, Andrew, ten, Jason, six, and half-sister Apple May,three.

Andrew has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Jason suffers from auto-immune enteropathy, which causes severe ulceration is his stomach.

James has his own health problems to deal with, suffering from a blood disorder which, until a year ago, meant he had to make regular visits to hospital for check-ups and treatment.

The Queen’s School student also has to find time for a fledgling football career, with trials at Luton Town, and his education.

Des Reid, youth Connexions personal adviser for African-Caribbean dual heritage young people in the Watford area nominated James.

Mr Reid said: “He has kept his cool, knuckled down and managed to achieve a good performance at school while still looking after his family concerns.”

The YOPEY contest was created by former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing, to give younger generations a fairer image, and encourage young people to give to the community.

Mr Gearing said: “The only requirement is that the entry is aged 10-25, lives, works or studies in Hertfordshire, and gives to others in one way or another.”

To nominate someone for the Citygate YOPEY, visit the related link below, or send a stamped addressed envelope to: YOPEY, PO Box 236, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 1DP.

Young people can nominate themselves. Entries close on June 30.