THE mother of a five-year-old Nelson girl who died from a brain tumour is to take part in Pendleside Hospice’s Midnight walk in memory of her daughter.

Holy Saviour Primary School pupil Shaylee Houghton was diagnosed with the rare tumour, known as grade 4 glioblastoma multiforme, in August last year.

But after a courageous four-month battle with the illness she died in hospital on December 29.

Shaylee’s devoted mum Gemma, now plans to take part in Pendleside Hospice’s Midnight Walk, on July 7, to raise money for local people struck down by long term illnesses.

Gemma, of Thursby Road, Nelson, said: “I have had bad knees since I was young but I decided I wanted to do something to raise money in Shaylee’s name.

“I have recently lost a friend to cancer who had excellent treatment at Pendleside and that is why I decided to do this event.

“Hopefully, if my knees can cope with an eight mile walk, I might be able to take part in other events later in the year.”

Shaylee’s rare condition affects just three out of every 100,000 people, is incurable and inoperable.

The youngster had just started her first year at Holy Saviour Primary School when she was diagnosed at Manchester Children’s Hospital.

Gemma took Shaylee to the doctors in August after she noticed her arm was trembling.

She was tested for diabetes but a week later Gemma was still concerned as the problem was persisting. Shaylee was taken to hospital and tests revealed the cancer.

Gemma added: “If Shaylee was still here she would probably want to take part in this walk with me. We walked everywhere together.

“It would have been Shaylee’s six birthday yesterday, and to celebrate all her close family and friends had a picnic at her graveside. We miss her everyday.”

Anyone who wants to sponsor Gemma should visit to www.justgiving.com/gemma-houghton