AN inspirational five-year-old who battled a recurring brain tumour and rare coma yet continued to smile has been crowned a Little Star.

Joshua Wilson, of Walshaw Road, Bury, received the honour from Cancer Research UK to celebrate the bravery of children who sparkle despite being diagnosed with cancer.

Joshua was only three years old when doctors discovered a tumour and cyst on his brain stem. He underwent life-saving surgery but was left in a rare sleep-like coma where his body could not function yet he remained aware of his surroundings.

Seven months later, parents Dawn Fidler and Colin Wilson were told the devastating news that the tumour had regrown and would continue to cause damage until it was stopped or removed. An intense course of chemotherapy followed, and, thanks to physiotherapy and treatment at a specialist centre, Joshua returned home in February, 2005.

Since then, the Tottington Primary School pupil has regained movement in his body. He finished his latest course of chemotherapy treatment at Christmas but still receives regular blood transfusions. Mum Dawn said: "Joshua deserves a Little Star award as he is a brave boy and, after everything he's been through over the last two years, he's never lost his cheeky smile and fun personality. It's amazing to anyone who meets him just how happy he is despite his illness."

Cancer Research UK spokeswoman Jane Bullock said: "Everyone who meets Joshua thinks he is a little star."