AN illustrator of children’s books has been nominated for two awards.

Emmeline Pidgen is up for the 15 for 2015 award, which rewards 15 exceptional freelaners with recognition and business support for next year.

She has also been nominated for the Blog North Awards in the best art and culture blog category.

Emmeline, who also creates pictures for advertising and graphic narratives, said: “I am really chuffed, it is great news.

“I am particularly pleased with the one for self-employed people because I am very passionate about supporting freelancers and making sure we are not overlooked.”

The 26-year-old set up Emmeline Illustration after graduating from University College Falmouth in 2010.

She has illustrated five published children’s books including The Flyaway Blanket, Sylvester and the New Year, Snapped by Sam, One More Candle and the Lavender Blue Dress.

The illustrator, who lives in Buckshaw Village, Chorley, with her boyfriend, said: “I work a lot with publishers and authors. They put a lot of trust in me and let me be free with the characters.

“East Lancashire is a great place to launch a freelance business. I go to networking days which are good for meeting other local businesses.

“There is also Creative Lancashire which helped me out with support.”

To vote for Emmeline in the Blog North Awards, visit www.blognorthawards.com