HUNDREDS of children were entered and thousands voted.

Now, after weeks of waiting, we can reveal the results of The Bolton News’ Little Darlings competition.

The two victorious youngsters live just doors away from each other in Farnworth.

Gareth Scott, aged two, of Highfield Road, has won the aged two-and-under category.

Demi Bradley Southern, aged three, of nearby Sandpiper Close, picked up the prize for the aged three to five category.

They have both won a week-long Haven family holiday, a portrait, £100 in vouchers, a photographic contract with the Lipsy Model Agency in Bolton and, most importantly, the 2008 Little Darlings Trophy.

Proud mums Lisa Scott and Joanne Southern said they were delighted when they received a telephone call with the good news.

Mrs Scott, aged 27, said: “I couldn’t believe it. My little girl, Shelby, won last year. I didn’t expect two of my children to win in consecutive years, especially when there are so many in the competition.”

Miss Southern, aged 36, said: “I was shopping and thought I would get her photo done.

“I was so pleased with them I bought them all. But then I forgot about it, so when they rang me up I was gobsmacked.

“I just couldn’t believe it, I was absolutely over the moon.”

While posing for a photograph at The Bolton News’ offices in Churchgate, Bolton town centre, Demi, a pupil at Cherry Tree Primary Nursery in Farnworth, said: “I’m so excited.”

The pair will be presented with a trophy and the title of Little Darling 2008 at a presentation at The Bolton News office in Churchgate in a few weeks.