JUST over a year ago, Ellie Birkett could not stand up unaided and her parents feared she would never be able to take a single step.

She was born with severe learning difficulties, had problems with her balance and co-ordination, and did not like to be touched.

Now the five-year-old, who is also autistic, is making astonishing progress after starting a therapy programme and tackling a series of exercises.

Ellie, her parents Emma and Gary, and two-year-old sister Olivia, travelled to Somerset to visit a therapy centre run by children's charity Brainwave.

They spent two days there in August last year and a programme of physical and cognitive exercises was drawn up to suit Ellie's needs.

She practiced the exercises with her parents at home in Swanage Close, Bury, and soon started to make progress.

Within weeks, Ellie's strength and co-ordination had improved, and just two months after starting the programme, she could walk independently.

One year later, the Millwood Primary School pupil is continuing to improve, she makes more eye contact and understands a few words.

Mum Emma said: "I read an article about Brainwave and thought it was worth a try for Ellie. We spent two days in Somerset, and it's amazing to see the difference it has made. Ellie's doing really well, and it's like a dream come true when I see her walking around the house.

"Her movement is still very limited, but it's much better than it used to be. She doesn't mind being touched and we're trying to teach her some basic language skills. Most of her progress is because of the exercises. She's like a totally different person now."

* Anyone wishing to find out more about Brainwave can contact 01278 429089 or visit www.brainwave.org.uk.