A ten-year-old girl is set to become a television star on the BBC's annual Children In Need extravaganza.

Rhiannon Wilkinson, of Kingsclere Road, Bicester, cares for her mum Helen, who suffers from the blood condition Raynaud's disease, which means she cannot perform basic tasks like getting dressed or opening packets.

Rhiannon, a pupil at Brookside county primary school, was chosen by the Banbury-based Young Carer's Group to be filmed at home on Saturday and later alongside other carers who are painting a huge mural.

Mum Helen, 38, said: "Rhiannon's contribution to my life is immense. I couldn't cope without her and she is always with me when I need her. Sometimes it is simple things like making a drink but there are times when it gets worse and Rhiannon has to help me get undressed at night. She has had to grow up very quickly and she deserves to appear on television." Raynaud's disease affects the circulation of blood in the hands and feet, affecting Mrs Wilkinson's grip while also leaving her susceptible to cold temperatures. Paula Mattachine, of the Young Carers Project, said: "Rhiannon has been selected because she is a perfect example of what a young carer might have to do. She is very able to communicate and she has a good relationship with her mum."

The mural will show what it means to be a young carer and is being produced with help from Bicester artist Louise Angel. When completed it will on display at the Carer's Centre in Horsefair, Banbury.

The programme featuring Rhiannon will be shown during November on the Children In Need broadcast.

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