BRAVE burns girl Stephanie Little was today undergoing a four-hour skin graft operation.

Stephanie, five, suffered severe burns to her lower back when her dress burst into flames as she stood too close to a gas fire. The graft operation was due to take place on Thursday but was put off because of infection.

Her dad, David, said today: "The infection has cleared up and the operation was due to go ahead today.

"Stephanie has been extremely brave throughout. She has not cried once since the incident happened.''

If all goes well today, Stephanie could be back at her Culshaw Street, Burnley, home with mum and dad, David and Elaine, on Friday.

Stephanie was playing next door when she ran out into the street screaming with her dress on fire.

Neighbours Kevin and Debbie Smith ran after her, rolled her on the ground and ripped her clothes from her back.

Stephanie was admitted to Booth Hall Children's Hospital, Manchester, where her parents were anxiously waiting for the results of the operation.

David said: "She has been great throughout. We are now hoping that she will be back home soon.''

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