TINY Callam Entwistle has earned the title of "miracle baby" after celebrating a milestone birthday his family thought he would never see.

Twelve months ago the tot was fighting for his life after being born ten-and-a-half weeks premature. But on Sunday (Jan 14) more than 30 friends and family members joined proud parents Darren and Sharron in his first birthday celebrations.

The story of Callam's fight for life was first featured in the Bury Times last year as mum Sharron (29) paid tribute to nursing staff at Fairfield Hospital.

Sharron, who returned to her job as an assistant personnel officer at Bury General Hospital this week, said: "It was their quick-thinking action at a routine ante-natal check-up that saved Callam's life."

A scan revealed that Callam had ceased growing in the womb and Sharron was transferred to Liverpool Women's Hospital for an emergency Caesarean section. Callam was born weighing just 2lb 9oz and Sharron was warned that her baby son could be brain damaged if he survived at all. He faced a check list of health problems.

But he proved to be little fighter and, despite a few setbacks including a worrying illness over Christmas, Callam went on to make a full recovery.

Sharron said: "For the last twelve months we have experienced a roller coaster of emotions. We started off with worry over whether or not he would survive. One day he was critical, the next he was making progress. Then we were elated to bring him home. it was the best day of my life."

The couple, who were married in September, were dealt a sickening blow on Christmas Day when Callam was taken into hospital with bronchial pneumonia and a partial collapse of his right lung.

"My nine-year-old daughter Naomi asked if Callam was going to die. And for a time we really weren't sure as he was pretty poorly," said Sharron, a former Bury Church HS pupil who now lives in Rawtenstall.

Fortunately Callam was allowed home on New Year's Eve, with an inhaler to treat his mild asthma, and Sharron could then plan his birthday party.

She said: "He is wonderful. Everyone who meets him says he is the happiest baby they know. He is very strong and loves standing up although he can't walk alone yet. The only problem he has is that he is small but the hospital is really pleased with his progress. He was meant to be here.

"He is my little angel."