A KIND-HEARTED youngster has scooped a military award in recognition of her support of homeless people during lockdown.

Elivia Thomson, from Runcorn, has worked tirelessly during the pandemic making up bags of coats, blankets and sanitiser as well as food and water for people in need.

The 11-year-old, whose dad Stuart serves in the British Army, has been named little trooper of the month by military charity Little Trooper.

Elivia’s mum Sarah nominated her for the award as she has also been helping her younger sister Hope, aged eight, who is missing their dad after he was deployed overseas for six months.

Sarah said: “Elivia has made me so proud over the last few months.

“She has been especially kind to her siblings, especially her little sister Hope, giving her extra cuddles and making her laugh when she’s upset.

“She has also been helping me around the house and is always asking me what jobs she can do.”

She added: “She decided to make support bags for the homeless and this was completely her own idea.

“I was amazed at how determined she was and this was something she wanted to do.

“She hates the thought of people being cold and hungry and just decided to take the initiative and do something about it.”

Little Troopers is a registered charity supporting children who have parents serving in the British Armed Forces.

The charity has a wide range of resources that parents can use to support children at home including the Little Troopers Treasures, which is a story recording app for military parents to record themselves reading stories for their children to watch while they are away.

Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers, said: “Reading Elivia’s nomination really warmed our hearts.

“It’s amazing to see such a young girl act so maturely and with kindness to everyone around her, especially when her dad has just been deployed overseas, as this is always such a challenging time for families.

“We’re glad to hear that Elivia is proud to be a Little Trooper and we hope she enjoys showing her dad her very own medal.”

Elivia will receive a medal, certificate and prize as part of her award.