While many schoolgirls are worrying about the latest fashions and which boy band singer they prefer, young Madeleine Hatt has more serious responsibilities.

The ten-year-old has shouldered much of the burden of running her home in Seaford after her mother was disabled by a series of strokes.

Madeleine has spent the past two years helping her 17-year-old brother David look after their mother, juggling school work with housework.

Now her efforts have been recognised with the presentation of the Brian Smith Youth Award, for which she was nominated by teachers at her school, Seaford Primary.

The annual award is given by the Newhaven, Peacehaven and Seaford Lions Club to a young person who has had to fight against the odds.

Madeleine received a cup and a cheque for £250 at an award ceremony.

The citation from her deputy headteacher, Judith Cooper, said Madeline was nominated because of her courage and determination in coping with her mum's ill health and helping to run the household.

She said: "Madeleine has had to work through some difficult times as well as concentrating on her school work. She has been an enormous help at home, taking on extra responsibilities and helping out wherever she can.

"She has done this without complaining and has always maintained a positive outlook.

"Maddie, as she is known, is a joy to have in school and she is very helpful, considerate to others and tries hard with her school work."

Her mum, Michaela, 39, had her first stroke two years ago. She said Madeleine was always willing to help and never complained.

She said: "I was thrilled she got the award. Life has really changed for me. It has been very tough but she has been so good. I know she worries about me."

Michaela, who said she also gets support from her son, added: "She is a real help to me. Sometimes I am just overwhelmed by the way she can be.

"She is a very caring, kind and loving child."

Despite keeping busy around the house, Madeleine is learning to play the piano and loves dancing and drawing.