A FIVE-year-old boy from Chester has been named a "Little Trooper" after his school friend nominated him for his bravery.

Joshua Cockburn was named ‘Little Trooper of the Month’ after spending several weeks in Alder Hey Hospital before Christmas.

Joshua was born with a rare heart condition and was undergoing major surgery when his best friend Eva, also aged five, decided to write to national children’s charity Little Troopers and nominate him for the award.

In her nomination, Eva said: “My best friend is called Josh, and he is in Alder Hey Hospital at the moment. He has a rare heart condition and he has gone into hospital to get it fixed. I think he is so brave and I really miss him already and hope he gets better soon. I think he is the biggest little trooper ever.”

Joshua’s dad, Steven, serves with the 11 EOD and Search Regiment and often works away from home.

Joshua’s mum, Nicola said: “We didn’t even know that Eva had entered Joshua for the award so it was a wonderful surprise.

"He’s now back at home and happy to be reunited with Eva. He’s recovered perfectly and you would never know by looking at him that he’s had surgery recently.”

Joshua received a Little Troopers medal and special prize as part of his award.

Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers, added: “The Little Trooper of the Month scheme is about recognising military children who have been exceptionally brave, inspirational or just extra special against all odds. When we received Joshua’s nomination from Eva it brought a tear to my eye and he is certainly a very worthy Little Trooper.

"We’re delighted to hear that Joshua has recovered following his surgery and is running around the playground again with his best friend.”

Little Troopers is a registered charity supporting children who have parents serving in the British Armed Forces. The charity runs a number of initiatives including the Little Troopers Treasures App, which enables military parents to record themselves reading stories to their children to watch while they are away; the Little Troopers separation pack and Little Troopers primary school resources, including dedicated school wellbeing course.

For more information visit www.littletroopers.net