An Elstree schoolgirl is among the favourites to win the prestigious Young People of the Year award (Yopey') in Hertsmere.

Talya Jacobson has cerebral palsy and is partially sighted after contracting meningitis as a baby. But that has not stopped the plucky 12-year-old raising more than £15,000 for charity this year after completing a sponsored run, swim and bicycle ride.

With that in mind, Paula Gray, of Elstree, Borehamwood & Radlett Mencap, nominated Talya, who attends Southfield School, Hatfield, for the Yopey gong.

The aim of the award is to recognise the good work done by young people in Hertsmere, and nominations can be made for anybody aged between ten and 25 who lives, works or studies in the area.

Ms Gray explained why she nominated Talya: "She's done fantastically well in raising so much money, and bearing in mind the severity of her disability, that is fantastic. She puts me to shame, and when it came to making a nomination, she was the first person who came to mind."

Talya's mother, Beverley, said of her daughter's nomination: "I'm immensely proud of her. She's inspired her siblings to do things for charity too."

Councillor Martin Heywood, Mayor of Hertsmere, described Yopey as a fantastic scheme'.

He said: "There are many young people across Hertsmere who give up their time and energy to help others and I am delighted to be associated with this very worthwhile initiative."

The winning nominee will receive up to £1,000 - £500 for themselves and £500 for a youth organisation.

To make a nomination, visit www.yopey.org or write to Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD.

The deadline is January 14.