A YOUNG charity champion has been nominated for a top fundraising gong.

Patrick Kiehlmann, from Bishopbriggs, is in the running for the Young Fundraiser of the Year at the JustGiving awards, after raising more than £5000 for Yorkhill Children's Charity.

The 12-year-old cycled the length of the UK last year after staff at Yorkhill saved his life when he became ill with appendicitis.

As reported in the Evening Times, Patrick was admitted to the hospital for a routine operation but this quickly became life-threatening.

After spending a week recovering, he was rushed back to the facility when his health started getting worse over night.

If it hadn't been for Yorkhill staff, the youngster could have died.

Patrick's dad Mark said he is "very proud" of his son and his nomination.

He said: " I'm delighted for Patrick.

"He really wanted to say thanks to the staff team at Yorkhill Hospital for saving his life, just two years earlier and riding a bike is just what he loves doing.

"I couldn't be happier for him and feel sure the money donated will make a difference for other sick children in Glasgow."

Patrick said he was very surprised to have received the nomination and was happy that Yorkhill would receive more publicity.

He said: " My family are all really proud of me and I'm excited to go to the awards ceremony in London.

"My mum, dad and hopefully my auntie will be coming too.

"Yorkhill got a publicity when I did the ride but they'll get more now I've got this nomination."

Patrick was picked as a finalist from more than 10,000 nominations, and will rely on votes from the public to win the title.

The person with the most votes by August 30 will be crowned the winner at a prestigious awards ceremony in London next month.

To vote for Patrick, visit www.facebook.com/justgiving