A BOLTON youngster is could be named Greater Manchester Police's Citizen of the Year tomorrow.

Sarah Rothwell, of New Church Road, Smithills, was nominated for the award thanks to her many years of fund-raising with the "Starlight Cabaret" group which her mum runs.

The group of singers and dancers have performed at venues all over Bolton and raised cash for many charities including Bolton Hospice, the Meningitis Trust and cancer research groups.

The 15-year-old has enjoyed dancing for 10 years, but only worked up the courage to start singing three years ago.

She is also a member of the Green Generation organisation which picks up litter at grot-spots all over the town, and is a keen writer with the Millennium Teenage Paper which is a joint project between Bolton News Service, Bolton Council and the BEN.

The Smithills School pupil has two brothers and a sister who are also enthusiastic performers.

She was completely surprised to be nominated for the award and said: "I'm really thrilled and my mum is very proud of me.''

The annual award scheme was launched 10 years ago to recognise work being carried out by young people in the region. The winner receives £1,500 to be donated to the charity or community initiative of their choice, a holiday worth £2,500 and a VIP day out at a leading football club. Winners from the 11 heats will attend the final and gala evening at the Thistle Hotel in Manchester tomorrow night.

Sarah's mum, Linda Rothwell, said: "Sarah is really looking forward to Friday night and knows she has done well to make it this far.

"The competition is very tough with an impressive line-up. I'm really looking forward to going with her as it should be a good night whatever happens with a meal and disco."

Last year's overall winner was Horwich teenager, Ryan Dean, aged 16, who won for his efforts in helping others.

He visited the elderly at lunchtimes and after school and was also an active member of the Bolton Junior Gateway Club which helps and supports teenagers with special needs.