A FIVE-YEAR-OLD cancer sufferer is getting ready to take part in a challenge in aid of a cause close to her heart.

Ellie Rieveley, of Manor Road, Astley, has acute lymphoblastic leukaemia but that has not stopped her from signing up for Cancer Research’s Pretty Mudder 5K obstacle course event at Heaton Park in Manchester on July 14.

The St Stephen’s CE Primary School pupil will also be given the honour of being invited on stage to sound the horn at the start of the event.

Her mum Leanne said: "I am very proud of Ellie for doing this challenge.

"She is doing amazing at the moment and is going from strength to strength and has just over six months of treatment left at hospital.

"When I am out with Ellie people who don't know her comment about how happy she is and likes to skip and sing all the time despite her treatment."   

A fundraising page has been set up in aid of Theo’s Warriors, a charity founded by the mum of a child at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, where Ellie has her treatment.

Theo’s Warriors helps young cancer sufferers by providing bean bags to give them more comfort as well as providing grants to give emotional support.

Ellie will be taking part in the event with her older brother Stanley, seven, as well as her school and family friends.

To donate to Ellie’s crowdfunding page visit bit.ly/2kY7EM5.