A brave toddler who suffers from a rare form of cancer was back home this week after undergoing her first major course of treatment.

Little Niomi Gillin, who has lymphoma cancer in several parts of her body, has spent the past month at St James' Hospital in Leeds receiving intensive chemotherapy.

Now the 22-months-old tot is spending a brief spell at home before returning to hospital for her second term of treatment. Although doctors have warned that Niomi could have to undergo up to two years of chemotherapy, plus regular tests on her kidneys and heart, early signs are positive.

Mum Sara Gillin says: "She is amazing. Niomi hadn't been out of bed for four weeks and although she is still a little unstable on her feet, she is very chirpy and full of life.

"She is on nasal feeds and we are still waiting for the results of various tests, but she is OK. It is great to have her at home again and enjoying some normality."

Niomi this week had the chance to road test a new toy jeep which was bought for her with part of an anonymous £500 donation, given after the launch of an appeal.

Behind the fundraising campaign is Sara's cousin Mrs Rachel Shellabear, whose nine-year-old son Jack is having a sponsored head shave at Hairavanti in Keighley on Tuesday.

Other projects in the pipeline include a fun day and dog show at Oxenhope community centre on May 20, 11am-6pm. The event will also feature a table-top sale, children's small pet show, stalls, games and raffles. Refreshments will be served.

A head shave already held by Niomi's godmother Rachel Garner raised £200, which will be given to Ward 10 at St James' Hospital.

Donations to the appeal can be paid directly into the Niomi Gillin Appeal Fund account at the Nat West Bank in Keighley (account number 29436958, sort code 60-12-39).

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