A FOUR-year-old girl is in need of donations and sponsors for treatment after being diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Elsa Sherlock, of Appleton, was born suddenly at 35 weeks after contracting listeria sepsis.

Jenna, Elsa's mum, said: "Elsa was born five weeks early and was in the neonatal unit at Warrington Hospital.

"Her breathing was ventilated for the first few days but we took home a healthy baby, she had no medical issues."

But, as Elsa grew, she failed to meet her milestones and after taking longer than usual to start walking, she was taken for physiotherapy at Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool.

Jenna explained: "She had some MRI scans and she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy just before she turned three.

"It was a bit of a relief when we found out because we knew exactly what we were dealing with and could then make a plan going forward for her.

"You just want to do the best for your child."

Just4Children, a UK charity which provides support for families with ill children, are fundraising to help with the costs of Elsa’s therapy and equipment to give her the best chance of an independent future.

A regular activity plan and physio is crucial to help Elsa master climbing stairs, running, jumping and walking longer distances.

Elsa goes to a personal trainer once a fortnight and takes part in conductive education sessions with charity Stick 'n' Step, based in Runcorn, activities with Birchwood-based Brainwave children's charity and rebound therapy.

Jenna is also looking into enrolling Elsa with horse riding therapy classes.

Jenna added: "Elsa really enjoys it and all the therapy is done through play.

"It's not just therapy to her."

The family are looking for any businesses who would like to sponsor Elsa's treatment.

More information on how to donate can be found on her Just4Children donation page.