A COURAGEOUS schoolgirl passionate about trampolining has returned to the sport just months after undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumour.

Sophie Gallagher, who turned 14 on Sunday, was warned following the operation that it could be a year before she was able to tackle any strenuous activity again.

But the inspirational youngster has taken part in a British Gymnastics contest at Milton Keynes.

And it was an emotion-charged moment for her mum, Karen, who was watching on.

"I was so proud of her," said the 44-year-old community carer.

"She even jumped in a higher-level category than she was used to before the surgery.

"It was an amazing and very emotional moment to see her competing again."

Sophie, who was also a keen fell runner with Keighley and Craven Athletics Club, was unaware of any health issue until she began suffering seizures in April last year.

"She had her first while she was on a sleepover at a friend's," said Miss Gallagher.

"An ambulance was called at 4.30am to take her to hospital and she had a second seizure while she was in A&E."

A subsequent MRI scan revealed a non-malignant tumour, about the size of an olive.

Doctors gave Sophie the option of waiting to see if the growth developed any further, or undergoing an operation, but with a warning that the surgery could permanently affect her balance.

"I thought they were joking at first when they told me I had a brain tumour," said Sophie, who grew up in Oakworth and attended the village primary school.

Her grandparents, Robert and Linda Gallagher, live at Haworth.

"The only time I felt scared was the night before the surgery," she added.

“There are times I wish I hadn't had the operation, like when I can't do a certain trampolining move that I used to be able to do.

"But I really wanted to have the tumour taken out as it could have become cancerous."

She and her mum, who now live on the Isle of Wight, are backing Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

The campaign is staged by the Brain Tumour Charity, which funds research and supports those affected.

Emma Tingley, for the organisation, pays tribute to Sophie.

"Her determination is an inspiration to everyone whatever their age," she said.

"By speaking out about her experience during Brain Tumour Awareness Month, Sophie and her family will help others affected by a tumour to feel less alone.

"We wish Sophie lots of luck with her trampolining and look forward to hearing about her next competition."

For more details about the charity, visit thebraintumourcharity.org.