A CHARITY founder has won a national “compassionate mum” award for her work with seriously or terminally ill children.

Gail O’Shea, from Brentwood, set up Wipe Away Those Tears with her husband, Jason, to make wishes come true for ill children and their families .

Mrs O’Shea, 48, said: “My husband and I just thought we were so lucky to have four healthy children and decided to give something back to others less fortunate than us.

“We raised £60,000 with our first fundraising ball in 2006 and have been holding them annually ever since.

“Last year, we managed t o raise about £160,000 on the night, so over the years we have raised more than £1.2million.

“We don’t give any of the money out, we make the arrangements whether that’s for medical equipment or a much-needed holiday.

“That way we know exactl y how every penny is spent.

"There are no forms to fill out or means testing, which is great as some of these families have to contend with so much without having to fight for what they need.

“We just want to bring a bit of happiness into their daily life.”

The wishes the charity has been able to fulfil include arranging for TV star Mar k Wright to present a wheelchair to Philippa Smith, pictured , holidays swimming with dolphins and the provision of vital medical equipment to countless youngsters.

Mrs O’Shea has now been chosen as a Tesco Mum of the Year and will be presented with her award atastar-studded ceremony at the Savoy, in London, on Sunday, March 1.

For more information, visit www.wipeawaythosetears.org or email Mrs O’Shea at gail@wipeawaythosetears.org