Schoolgirl fundraiser Bethany Hare joined forces with actress Joanna Lumley to present national Just Giving awards.

Last year the youngster, from Horsforth, became Just Giving’s Young Fundraiser 2011.

She was invited back to this year’s ceremony to present the award to the Young Fundraiser 2012, taking to the stage after fellow presenter Joanna Lumley.

The event, described by Bethany’s mum, Yvonne, as “amazing, emotional and very inspirational”, followed a whirlwind year for the schoolgirl.

The youngster has raised more than £18,000 for Martin House Children’s Hospice and has received a clutch of awards for her remarkable achievements. On Monday, she is due to receive a Diana Award in London.

Bethany gained support from around the world when she ran into copyright problems after posting a fundraising video of herself singing Smile on the internet. She went on to organise a Walk of Smiles in which hundreds of people took part, including the actor Matthew Lewis and MP Stuart Andrew.

Now she has set up her own charity in support of Martin House and hopes that Walks of Smiles will be held around the country to raise money for other hospices.

Another walk from Horsforth to Kirkstall is planned for September 8, and Bethany is planning to hold a walk in Harrogate. She has also booked her first charity ball, which will take place on Saturday, October 20, at Headingley Experience/ Stadium, with tickets costing £40 each.

The event will raise money for her charity, Bethany's Smile, which can be found at justgiving.com/ bethanyssmile Yvonne said: “Bethany is hoping that people will now organise their own fundraising events in aid of Bethany's Smile, which supports the care of children with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses, both by helping to fund children’s hospices and also by helping children requiring care or specialist equipment in the home.”

Anyone who wants to take part in the Walk of Smiles, or to volunteer to provide entertainment, should email bethanyssmile@virginmedia.com.