A young girl from Helston has set up her own letter writing service in a bid to bring a smile to other children facing difficult times.

Leanna Williams knows how tough it can be to be ill or spend long periods in hospital, having fought cancer twice.

Now the 12-year-old is turning those experiences into something positive, by supporting other children in a similar position or generally having a hard time, through Daisy Letters.

Anyone up to the age of 19 can be nominated to receive a personal, handwritten letter of encouragement from Leanna, which are designed to inspire and brighten up the day of the recipient - and she replies to every single request.

Already between 80 and 100 children worldwide have done just that, with letters sent as far away as New York.

In them she has given encouragement over everything from hospitals stays to troubles at school, and to children who are young carers or having difficulties at home.

Her mum Aimee said: "It was something she really wanted to do. She thought about how much she would like to receive a letter and the idea grew from there.

"She knows it's not going to fix everything, but if it can just bring a moment of joy and make them smile then she feels it's really worth it."

Leanna, a year eight pupil at Mullion School, spends much of her free time responding to requests, including after school and at weekends when she has nothing else on.

She takes pride in her work, using a special fountain and notepaper, and a light box to make sure the lines are straight.

She also stamps each envelope with a daisy, in recognition of the name of the service - so called because they are simple flowers that bring joy to many people, and for Leanna are a daily reminder of her identical twin sister Anastazie, who passed away.

"She puts a lot of thought into each one and makes every one individual," added Aimee.

"We're very, very proud. She's always been a really caring person and she's got great empathy for others. It's quite amazing really that she came up with it all herself."

Leanna said: "I know how hard it can be struggling with illnesses, or being in hospital for long periods of time, or having a bad day where life is tough.

"I would have loved to receive a letter to encourage me, and so I want to be able to do this for other children and teenagers.

"A handwritten, personal letter can mean so much to the recipient, and with words of strength, encouragement and care, I want to bring a smile to peoples faces and hopefully brighten up their day."

To nominate someone visit daisyletters.org.uk where there is a simple form to fill in giving the name of the recipient and the reason for the letter, and Leanna will respond as soon as she is able.