A stage-struck schoolgirl, diagnosed twice with cancer, has achieved her own star status thanks to a national charity.

Fifteen-year-old Stephanie Sutcliffe, of Keighley, went along to the Alhambra Theatre, in Bradford, on Friday, to be presented with a Little Star Award by Seamus Cullen, who is starring as Che Guevara in the hit musical Evita.

Seamus, who rose to fame as a Joseph finalist in the BBC’s “Any Dream Will Do” contest, presented her with a star-shaped trophy on behalf of Cancer Research UK and a certificate signed by himself and other celebrities, including Leona Lewis and Lewis Hamilton.

The annual Cancer Research UK Little Star Awards, in partnership with TK Maxx, acknowledge the unique challenges faced by youngsters who confront cancer.

Stephanie was first diagnosed with osteosarcoma — a rare form of bone cancer — in June 2006 when she was 12.

Her mother Deborah Curry nominated Stephanie for a Little Star Award last year after she had been diagnosed with osteosarcoma a second time last August.

Deborah said: “I nominated Stephanie because she had a really bad time the first time she was diagnosed with cancer. She had to have surgery to remove her femur and replace it with a metal prosthesis. She also underwent chemotherapy and in January 2008 she had to have further surgery to replace her hip.

“The bravery she shows is amazing. When she was diagnosed a second time she just took it all in her stride and is just getting on with the treatment.

“When she is in the hospital she plays with the younger children on the ward, making them laugh and helping them cope. The nurses think she is wonderful, she always has a smile on her face and has a great sense of humour.”

Stephanie is currently undergoing chemotherapy and could possibly have further surgery to treat the cancer and her mum added: “I’m honoured and privileged to have such a wonderful daughter and by nominating her for a Little Star Award, I wanted to let her know that she is my hero.”

Seamus said: “Stephanie is a star in her own right and it is a privilege to present her with a Little Star Award. She has shown real courage since being diagnosed with cancer.

“Both my mum and dad suffered from cancer and, thankfully, both have recovered well. And when I was around ten, I had surgery on my femur, so I know what effect major surgery can have.

“But the impact of cancer can be profound on a family and it is an inspiration to see the strength in people as they resolve to overcome it.

“Stephanie is one of those inspirational people.”

To nominate a Little Star you can register online at cancerresearchuk.org/littlestar or call 0113 263 6495.

As well as sponsoring the Little Star Awards, TK Maxx has partnered with Cancer Research UK to launch the “Together for Kids” fund which has raised £3 million.