An 11-year-old girl who took charge when her older brother had a dangerous seizure has been nominated for a national award.

Marianne Turland, from Ipswich, stayed calm and focused when her 14-year-old big brother Levi had an epileptic fit.

The young carer found water and towels while also propping up and her brother while reassuring both Levi and her mum Eleanor Byng that the worst was over.

Miss Byng described her little girl as "a lighthouse in the storm" and worthy of the nomination from Sense for the selfless care she provides for her brother.

The 44-year-old, who is a family carer and works in an Ipswich pub, said: “That night, when Levi had a fit, I was on my own, my husband, Phil, was at work and I was just so tired I needed help.

“Marianne heard me crying and said, ‘What can I do, mum?’ 

“It didn’t faze her at all. Her approach was, ‘OK, he’s having a fit. So what? We can deal with this, mum.’

"In that moment, she became the adult, she took charge. She was willing, without any question, to do anything to help her brother and to help me."

The Stoke High School pupil is protective of her brother who is autistic, has sensory processing disorder and has recently developed epilepsy.

Marianne Turland (bottom right) with mum Eleanor, dad Phil and brother LeviMarianne Turland (bottom right) with mum Eleanor, dad Phil and brother Levi (Image: Sense)

The family recalled she has always been there for her brother, even telling strangers to “stop staring at Levi and go away” during a family trip to London at the age of five.

Marianne Turland. Marianne Turland. (Image: Sense) Marianne's bravery has been recognised by Sense and she has been shortlisted for young sibling of the year. 

Marianne and Levi. Marianne and Levi. (Image: Sense)

Levi Turland on his bike. Levi Turland on his bike. (Image: Sense) Speaking of her nomination, 11-year-old Marianne said: “I love my brother. I am only doing what anyone else would do. I feel that supporting him - and other people who are seen by some as being 'different' – is really important. 

“I’d like everyone to show more compassion because we all need help sometimes. A little bit of kindness goes a long way!”

The charity will announce the winner of this year's awards in November.