A BRAVE Runcorn schoolgirl learning to walk again after major surgery is striving to make life better for sick children in hospital.

Katie Renshaw helped to raise more than half a million pounds for Alder Hey Children’s Charity last year.

Her infectious smile won the eight-year-old a photo shoot in Matalan’s hat campaign.

This year, she is supporting the retailer’s latest drive to encourage youngsters to ‘get your stripes’ with a range of colourful sleepwear.

So far the Christmas appeals have raised more than £1.3m towards the hospital's new research centre.

Katie has been treated at the hospital for cerebral palsy since she was one.

After a nine-hour operation to straighten her legs and feet last February, she had to go back in a wheelchair and could face further treatment.

Yet she never complains and at her appointment last week, she persuaded her surgeon Colin Bruce to pose for a picture in the new candy coloured red, white and green stripe pyjamas.

Her mum Clare, from Sandymoor, said: “Katie said to him: ‘I’ve got you a present but, first, you’ve got to complete my mission and have a picture taken with me in our new pyjamas.

“He burst out laughing. After her X-ray and appointment, he had his picture taken and had even bought her a little doll.”

Big-hearted Katie has also launched her own arts and crafts appeal.

“I was doing lots of arts and crafts in hospital,” said Katie. “It kept me busy and my days went fast.

“They only get a small amount of money for each ward. I want to help other children and give something back to Alder Hey.

“It is an amazing place and the people are incredible.”

Katie collected four giant bags full of games, pens, pencils and craft materials and was overwhelmed by the response.

“They were so pleased with them,” added Clare. “They will be shared between 10 wards.

“Katie never thinks of herself as being ill. She never complains and always wants to help other children.”