THE nan of a battling 21-month-old girl who nearly drowned after an accidental fall into a garden pond has spoken about the "overwhelming" support the family has received.

Little Ellie Daniels, of Vaudrey Drive, Woolston, has spent the past six months in a coma, saved by the combined resuscitation efforts of her nan, paramedics and doctors at Warrington Hospital.

She is now making slow progress after doctors feared the worst, but she will need vital equipment to aid her recovery.

"I think it is wonderful that so many people are helping our granddaughter. It has been overwhelming," said Brenda Daniels.

"Ellie has opened her eyes, but her progress will be slow. We just hope she gets better.

"Long-term who knows what sort of equipment she is going to need. She will have to learn how to speak and to walk."

Top names in the world of sport are the latest to offer their support.

Ellie has already touched the hearts of many Warringtonians who have raised more than £2,000 to date. But when comedian Charlie Hale saw a poster at his doctor's surgery in Bold Street, he was so moved by the family's brave fight that he decided to round up some of his friends for a charity dinner.

Ex-Liverpool Football Club ace and England midfielder John Barnes, St Helens rugby league star Keiron Cunningham and boxing champ Herrol 'Bomber' Graham will host the event at Bank Quay Sports Club on September 6, compered by Charlie.

Ellie's parents, Suzanne and Guy Daniels - currently on holiday with their son Matthew, aged five - and grandparents will also be attending the charity dinner.

There will be an opportunity to chat to the sporting heroes and ask questions.

Tickets cost £10 and are available by ringing the Bank Quay Sports and Social Club on 629091.

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