AN KIND-hearted mum who has fostered children for 14 years as well as youngsters with life-limiting conditions has been named as the Journal's Mum of the Year 2018.

Stephanie Bennett was nominated by her daughter Sophie.

Sophie said: "I think my mum should have this award as she is an amazing mum and nana to me and my adoptive brother Ivan as well as my two children.

"She has also fostered children for the last 14 years, but for the last the three years she has fostered children with life-limiting conditions.

"There are no foster carers in North Wales that can foster children that mum does.

"From children with ventilators, being fed via peg and children in wheelchairs and with learning disabilities."

Last year, Sophie and her family experienced a tough time when Sophie's sister died at Glan Clwyd Hospital after a three week battle with pneumonia.

Sophie added: "Despite all this heartache, my mum still carries on what she does."

This year's winning mum will be treated to a VIP day out courtesy of the Journal’s generous advertisers.

Prior to the Journal going to press, the family were away in Disney as Sophie's brother had been granted a wish.

Tanya Goodwin, telesales executive who chose the winner, added: "I chose Stephanie as our Mum of the Year because what she does deserves recognition.

"It must be tough helping to look after children who are so poorly when she also lost one of her own.

"I'm looking forward to us being able to spoil Stephanie."