A TODDLER is recovering well from a major operation on her heart.

Elsie Douthwaite, who is two and a half, underwent open heart surgery at Leeds General Infirmary last Tuesday, just days before the hospital's Wear Red Day to help raise funds for a new theatre.

The youngster, who lives in Norton with her parents Amanda and Brendon and younger sister Daisy, was diagnosed with severe mitral regurgitation in June 2014.

Amanda said: "Elsie is out of theatre and doing well in intensive care.

"The surgery went really well. I'm so, so proud of our brave little girl. Words will never explain how today has felt, or how it still feels but she's here and I couldn't be more grateful to Stefano Congiu and the amazing team.

"Thank you to everyone for the lovely comments and messages. This little girl really is a superstar."

To help raise awareness of children's heart conditions, the Douthwaites have been encouraging people to support the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF) which organises the Wear Red Day each year.

Amanda said so far they had raised more than £1,815, which included a donation from Thomas the Bakers in Malton and a bag-packing fundraiser at Asda.

"CHD is so common. More common than people are aware of, which is scary," she said.

"This is why raising awareness is so important. Recognise the signs and symptoms early and it can hopefully be treated.

Other events included a fundraiser at the Norton-based Dance Expression, which is attended by five year-old Jessica Thomas who also had open heart surgery when she was just six months old.

Jessica, who lives with her mum Katrina Bray, dad, Martin Thomas and older son Elliott, in Norton, was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect (CHD) before she was born.

Katrina said the fundraising morning had raised £194.29 for the CHSF.

"The children wore red clothes and we sold pin badges," she said. "The charity's mascot Katie bear made a special appearance and the were so excited especially as she came at a time when it was the younger ones. Thanks to everyone who has supported Wear Red Day."

Anyone who would like to still like to make a donation should go to justgiving.com/Amanda-Douthwaite or facebook.com/events/1708441666058803/