A COURAGEOUS four-year-old girl who is always smiling no matter what life throws her way was reunited with her stolen wheelchair days before Christmas.

The family spoke of their relief to see the return of the custom-made wheelchair after it was stolen during a burglary of their home in Padgate.

Dad Lee Shepherd, of King George Crescent, said it is difficult to put into words how thankful the family are for the support they have received from friends, family and complete strangers.

The 35-year-old, who works in a transport office for electronic companies, said: “We went from a complete lack of trust in the human race to being overwhelmed by the kindness of many.

“It has been a complete rollercoaster of emotions.

“No words will be enough to describe how thankful we are.”

Warrington Guardian:

His partner of seven years Sarah Cooper, 37, added that the experience had been 'surreal' after thousands of people shared their appeal and their heart-breaking story hit the headlines across the country.

She said: "I know we won't have been the only people to be burgled so close to Christmas so I cannot thank everyone enough for getting behind us.

"People are quick to criticise the police but DC Vicky Goodwin has been amazing. She has been so supportive and we would not have this happy ending if it was not for her."

Warrington Guardian:

The family feared Christmas would be cancelled after burglars targeted the home they share on King George Crescent on Sunday, December 20, between 2am and 3am.

Thieves broke in while the couple were sleeping upstairs along with their two twin daughters Lydia and Faye Shepherd.

Burglars stole money from inside cards, Christmas presents from under the tree and irreplaceable pieces of artwork the children had created during their last term at school.

A wheelchair used by Lydia, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus at just weeks old, was also stolen when thieves used the family's car as a getaway vehicle.

The Bewsey Lodge Primary School pupil relies on the chair for mobility.

But within 48 hours police had located the stolen car with the wheelchair on Bowring Park Road in Liverpool

This came as a huge relief to the family who are constantly inspired by Lydia’s strength.

Lee said: “She is such a feisty little girl and she is hard and made of tough stuff.

“I remember after she went in for this major surgery and she was cut open from ear to ear to remove a cyst.

“At first we were worried she was having an epileptic fit but she was moving about and smiling – she’s such a happy girl.”

News of the break-in went viral after family friend Dani Louise posted a message of Facebook calling on the public's help.

A Crowdfunding page was set up with more than £2,500 donated within 24 hours and countless offers from charities including Warrington Disability Partnership, The Shannon Bradshaw Trust and Oliva Alice Foundation.

To donate click here.

Investigations are ongoing into the burglary by Cheshire Police with DC Vicky Goodwin urging anyone with information to come forward.

Call Cheshire Police on 101 citing incident number 413 of December 20 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.