AN animal-mad Ribble Valley youngster’s dream came true when she got up close and personal with wild beasts on an African safari.

Ellie Wilkinson, 14, from Bolton-by-Bowland, has from the life-shortening condition Cystic Fibrosis.

The genetic illness affects her major organs, particularly the lungs and she has regular physiotherapy and daily medication.

But she was given the chance of a lifetime when she had a wish granted by the Starlight Children’s Foundation – the UK’s leading wish charity for children with serious and terminal illnesses.

When her father Paul approached the charity he said: “She is a complete star and an inspiration to all of us.

"She has to deal with so much but never complains and absolutely refuses to allow her condition to get in the way of getting on with her life.”

He told the charity: “Any wish involving animals would really mean a lot to Ellie.

"She just loves spending time with animals. It would be amazing if she could go on safari and experience seeing wild animals in their natural environment while her health is good enough.”

Ellie’s dream trip with her parents Paul and Rachel and brother Matthew, took place in two private bush homes on their own game reserves in the Waterberg region of the Limpopo province in South Africa.

The youngster, who has dreams of becoming a vet, got first hand experience when she helped the safari vet treat an injured buffalo.

She said: “I loved all the African animals, especially the lions, elephants and giraffes.”

Rachel said: “Words cannot describe how amazing the holiday was.

"Ellie loved every moment and she is now more determined than ever to study to be a vet.”