A BARRY couple have been nominated for an award after helping to care for their grandson who has Cerebal Palsy.

John and Catherine Kellaway, who are from Barry, have been nominated for a Contact a Family award, following their support and help for their eight-year-old grandson, Sebastian.

Mr and Mrs Kellaway's daughter, Emma Sargent, who lives in Penarth, nominated them for the award, to help shine a spotlight on the often "unseen but wonderful things grandparents do".

Mrs Sargent, who works for the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “My parents help our son Sebastian with every aspect of our lives.

"My dad John and Sebastian are best friends. They go everywhere together – the beach, the fairground, the park – my dad really makes sure Sebastian doesn’t miss out on anything.

"My mum Catherine can’t do more for us – helping with washing, ironing and generally keeping our house in order.

"Both give me and my husband, Adam, respite every Friday when they look after Sebastian so we have some time together and relax and even come on holiday with us to help us take care of him.

"Sebastian even spent four months living with them while our house was being adapted for him. This was one of the most stressful times we’ve had but with their help we got through it."

Mrs Sargent added that her parents are "simply the best grandparents in the world".

She said: “My parents are both retired now and I don’t know what I’d do without them.

"I can’t thank them enough and that’s why when I heard about Contact a Family’s awards I just knew I’d have to nominate them and take the opportunity to let them know how amazing I think they are."

The Contact a Family Awards was set up to support families with disabled children and to celebrate the countless things done when caring for disabled children.

Amanda Batten, CEO of Contact a Family, said: "I was touched to learn about Emma’s story and what a difference her parents make to her family.

“Contact a Family supports families with disabled children whatever the disability or condition. Our awards are fantastic opportunity for families to give someone special in their family's life the recognition they truly deserve."

Families who make the shortlist will be invited to an awards ceremony at the Palace of Westminster in January 2017.