A national competition to find Britain's Kindest Kid 2010 has been launched today by Five News with presenter Natasha Kaplinsky and the Charities Aid Foundation.

Now in its third year, the competition "recognises the extraordinary achivements of kids who have shown real kindness or given up their time for a good cause to help others".

A panel comprising Natasha Kaplinsky, fellow presenter Matt Barbet, ambassador for Action for Children Diane Louise Jordan, founder of Kids Company Camila Batmanghelidjh, and CAF chief executive John Low will find five finalists between five and 16 years old with extraordinary tales of kindness.

Public to choose from 5 finalists

Their stories will be shown on Channel Five News in November prompting a public vote to decide which child is most worthy of the prestigious accolade before the winner is announced on 3 December.

Last year's winner nine year old Harry Moseley had managed to raise £10,000 for Brain Tumour UK by making and selling beaded necklaces in 30 stores throughout the Midlands, after himself being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.

The 2008 winner Liam Fairhurst had raised £317,000 for charity throughout his life before losing his battle with cancer last year.

John Low said: "Britain’s Kindest Kid recognises the amazing acheivements of children and young people across the UK and the remarkable difference they make, improving the lives of others around them and breaking down common misconceptions about the selfishness of young people today."

The winner of Britain's Kindest Kid will appear on Five News and receive £1,000 pocket money plus a further £1,000 in Charities Aid Foundation vouchers to give to the charities of their choice.

Nominations and applications can be submitted at CAF's British Kindest Kid webpage.

Image: finalists of Britain's Kindest Kid 2009 visit 10 Downing Street