A TEENAGER who has Down's syndrome has been shortlisted for an award in recognition of her fundraising efforts.

Emma Harris, 15, is in the running for the prestigious title of Best Young Fundraiser at the National Fundraising Awards, after helping to raise thousands for a Northwich-based charity.

Her idea for the gingerbread sock appeal in 2016 has boosted the Cheshire Down's Syndrome Support Group (CDSSG) – located in Venables Road – to the tune of £20,000.

The concept, which Emma came up with alongside her dad Chris, has led to Roberts Bakery producing more than 40,000 gingerbread sock biscuits to be sold in the community on World Downs Syndrome Day in a bid to raise awareness.

As well as helping the group raise vital funds, it has also raised its profile and allowed it to help more and more families living with Down's syndrome in the area.

Since its launch in March 2016, the scheme has helped CDSSG support 100 individuals with Down’s syndrome and their families, and reach more than 10,000 school children to raise awareness.

The funds created as a direct result of Emma’s work have helped the charity continue to support parents and carers and unlock the potential of children with Down’s syndrome in Cheshire.

CDSSG chief executive Julie Duff said: “We’re thrilled that Emma’s outstanding fundraising efforts have been recognised.

"We’re a small charity so to have been shortlisted alongside national organisations is testament to Emma’s fantastic work.

"Our charity is entirely self-funded and the money that Emma has raised has directly contributed to the provision of training, support, resources and activities for people with Down’s syndrome in our local community.

"Emma’s an amazing role model and is already a winner in our eyes. We can’t thank her enough.”

The awards will be presented at a ceremony at The Brewery in London on July 2.

Winners will be revealed by actor and comedian Stephen K Amos, with the awards run by the Institute of Fundraising to recognise outstanding achievement and inspiring stories of dedication and success.

Four groups of experienced fundraisers and charity leaders have spent many hours judging and debating the shortlist.

See nationalfundraisingawards.org.uk and cheshiredownssyndrome.com