A NORTHWOOD mum is in the running for a national award for the children's class she set up just four months ago.

Hilda Wright, 33, is a mother of two under-fives who left her City job as a lawyer to set up a children music and dance class in her local community.

The class, called Mini Maniacs, was set up in December 2013 and is through to the voting stage for What’s on 4 Junior Awards in the best local activity for under-fives category.

The awards have grown to 22 categories, so to be nominated was a huge achievement for the group.

"It would mean everything to me to win," said Mrs Wright. "It would prove that I wasn't insane for leaving a highly-paid industry that I'd trained in for more than 10 years to establish my own business.”

Mrs Wright, who lives in Elgood Avenue with her husband Daryl and son and daughter, aged four and two, decided to make the switch last year.

"I often attended playgroups and baby-and-toddler classes with my friends and I was sure I could offer a better, more high energy and unique service.”

It is a class that offers what few big franchises can - a personal touch with a professional feel.

“Everything I have set up has been done with my own blood, sweet and tears," said Mrs Wright. "This is something I am unbelievably, incredibly passionate about".

The awards programme is now in its eighth year and celebrates the best activities, classes, people and places throughout the country. It is voted for by parents.

This year’s awards will be announced in June. For more information and to vote for Mini Maniacs go to http://www.whatson4littleones.co.uk/awards.asp