MIRACLE child Beth Heaton was spending her first full day at school today - the fourth anniversary of a nationwide appeal to save her life.

Four-year-old Beth was born with a serious blood disorder and doctors warned she would die within months without a bone marrow transplant.

Her sister Emma, now 11, made a moving appeal that resulted in more than 24,000 potential donors ringing the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust.

A man already on the trust's register turned out to be a perfect match and Beth had her life-saving operation in December 1999.

Yesterday she was able to join other pupils as they arrived at Lydlynch Infant School in Lydlynch Road, Totton, for the first time.

She was accompanied by her parents, Stuart and Karen, who made the short journey from their home off Ringwood Road.

Mr Heaton said: "Four years ago we were asking people to save her life and now we're taking her to school for the first time.

"Her remarkable character has brought her through - together with a huge chunk of help from the donor.

"Beth has blossomed into a really strong four-year-old, vibrant and full of confidence. It's marvellous to watch her.''

Beth was clutching a red bag emblazoned with the school's name and emblem when she arrived at the gates yesterday lunchtime.

She ran to greet her new classmates, some of whom she already knew.

Mr Heaton gave his daughter a reassuring hug before she went inside the school for a half-day introduction to the world of education.

He added: "When we brought her school uniform down her eyes lit up.

"Taking your child to school is a natural event for most families, but for us it has brought normality back into our lives.

"This really is a great ending for us.''