A BRAVE 15-year-old girl who beat a brain tumour three times as well as MRSA has been hailed as an inspiration to others.

Becky Davey told her story after being honoured by Burnley Sea Cadets for excelling in the unit over the past two and a half years despite her troubles.

The Sir John Thursby Community College pupil was first diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 10, in 2002, and underwent two operations.

It seemed she was better, but in January 2005 an MRI scan revealed the tumour had come back.

She underwent another operation and her family say she contracted hospital superbug MRSA which left her spending a week in isolation.

In January 2007 she had another operation and had to undergo radiotherapy.

Becky, of Briercliffe Road, Burnley, said: "I didn't get down about it. I was more upset when they said they were going to shave my hair off!"

Even while she was undergoing a six-week course of treatment, Becky continue to attend the Sea Cadets. Although unable to take part in her training, she helped teach younger cadets and pass on her knowledge.

Becky said: "I carried on going to cadets because it's really good fun. I taught the younger cadets about the drill - which is how to march during parade. Sometimes I felt tired so I had a sit down but after that I felt okay."

Becky completed her treatment in May last year but will continue to have six-monthly scans.

She returned to full training at Sea Cadets last month and her bravery and dedication were rewarded when she was promoted to Leading Cadet.

Becky said: "I could not stop smiling when they told me I had been promoted. I was the second person to be promoted in my unit."

Her first brain tumour was discovered during a routine eye test. Becky said: "I had constant headaches and had tunnel vision. I was struggling to see the board at school because it was blurry.

"When I went to the opticians they sent me straight to hospital."

The following day Becky underwent an X-ray and doctors confirmed she had a brain tumour.

Her mum Susan said: "During all that Becky has gone through we as parents have been extremely worried, scared and proud.

"Becky has never once complained about anything that has happened to her and is an inspiration to other people.

"She has always said what has to happen, has to happen'. We are very proud to have her as a daughter."

Sub Lieutenant Lizz Jubb, commanding officer of the Sea Cadets based in Stanley Street, said everyone was proud of Becky.

She said: "She has shown herself to be incredibly strong and brave throughout her treatment and she is an example to us all.

"She is truly an asset to the Sea Cadet Corps."

For Becky the next stop is the Royal Navy which she hopes to join after college as a cook.