A BRAVE schoolgirl who helped bring up her two younger sisters after their mum died was today told: "You're a little treasure."

When Margaret Bramham, 30, lost her battle against cancer of the bladder three years ago, it was her eldest daughter Keeley who stepped in to help her grandmother bring up the family.

Keeley, who is now 11, has now received an honorary knighthood for her bravery, courtesy of 'King Arthur', at the Camelot Theme Park, Charnock Richard.

Fifty knighthoods were handed to children across the North West who have overcome personal difficulties, tried extra hard at school, or have spent time helping others.

Keeley, who lives in the Olive Lane area of Darwen with her grandmother, brother John, 15, and sisters Rebecca, seven, and Jamie, six, has done all three.

Isabella, 60, said: "I had previously lost my son, James, when he was 23 and was involved in an accident at work. When Margaret was diagnosed with a rare cancer of the bladder I was devastated. She underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy then spent time in the East Lancashire hospice but she died two weeks after coming home.

"Because Margaret had four kids I couldn't grieve myself because the kids had lost their mother but we cuddled as a family and spoke about their mother. She was buried on Keeley's birthday, which is an upsetting reminder for her every year.

"But Keeley has been a treasure. She is a very quiet and polite lass who will do anything for me.

"I have been poorly with a bad back and she looks after the kids every morning then makes them their breakfast and their tea.

"I have never heard that lassie complain even though it can be quite hard work sometimes. I wouldn't know what to do without her."

Keeley and her family attended Camelot for a special ceremony in which she was 'knighted' by 'King Arthur'.

The St James CE Primary School pupil was nominated for the knighthood by headteacher Margaret Long who said: "Nothing is too much for Keeley. She is a wonderful pupil and sister.

"Seeing her knighted for her bravery has been such a treat not just for her but for all the family."

Keeley said she was totally shocked by her nomination. She said: "I just couldn't believe it. I was surprised as I really don't mind doing what I do and I get a lot of help."

Sandra Dempsey, Camelot's marketing manager, said: "The day was a truly magical experience for all those involved. The courage and selflessness of the children nominated has been amazing.

"The search unearthed some truly remarkable stories and the look on Keeley's face as she received her knighthood will be a picture that not many of his guests will forget."