IT is difficult to comprehend how someone so young can face such challenges with such courage and determination.

Sofia Dobson's remarkable bravery featured in the Warrington Guardian not just for her story but also for how she has used it to raise awareness and educate others – and she’s still only five years old.

That is why the youngster won our Child of the Year award in Thursday's Inspiration Awards for 2019.

After suffering a life-changing stroke and brain damage at birth, she has since defied all the odds to take her first steps, something her family never thought they would see.

Sofia's devastated family were told to prepare for the worst, even going so far as to baptise their newborn daughter in hospital, when she became severely ill.

Doctors still do not know what caused her stroke but the Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School pupil has far exceeded all of their expectations.

Having cerebral palsy, epilepsy and being visually impaired has not stopped her gigantic goals of walking, going to school and taking on every challenge she is faced with.

Sofia's mum Sarah, from Latchford, said: "These past few years have been hectic.

"We have a lot going on. Sofia has quite a few operations coming up soon but she just does it with a smile on her face.

"She is going from strength to strength; doing the Step Out For Stroke walk and did a cake sale at school, she is just amazing.

"I'm unbelievably proud of her.

"The doctors told us she probably would not walk or talk so to see her like this is amazing."