WHAT a wonderful Christmas present for little Nicole Vendettuoli and her family.

They have at last received the news that the four-year-old battler is strong enough to undergo the complex surgery that could change her life forever.

Perfectly understandably, doctors are being slightly cautious about the extent to which the operation could benefit Nicole.

They don't want to overly build-up the hopes and dreams of the family.

But there is every expectation that the procedure – and subsequent physiotherapy – will allow Nicole to walk unaided for the first time and ultimately be able to run around and play with her friends.

This week's news will also be greeted with delight by the many people who supported a fundraising campaign for the surgery to happen at all.

Around £30,000 was raised by family, friends and wellwishers, showing once again that Keighley people take some beating when it comes to digging deep for a good cause.

Nicole's case may once again raise questions about why such surgery has to be carried out privately and is not available on the NHS.

But for now, let's rejoice in the good news and share the family's delight at this special time of year.