A BIG-hearted schoolgirl from Southbourne has been without birthday presents for the past five years to help others.

Eleven-year-old Alexandra Hamilton, known as Ola, first asked for people to make donations to Macmillan Caring Locally, at the age of seven.

Alexandra’s dad, Andy, said: “None of us said anything to her, it was totally out of her head and off her own back and she came to us about it.”

He added: “She’s just got that aptitude to support. She’s always been that way.”

Ever since, the inspirational youngster who has three siblings and attends Stourfield Junior School, has given up birthday gifts to help others.

The charity, based at Christchurch Hospital, is part of the specialist palliative care service at The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The service offers specialist palliative care to patients with any advanced, progressive, incurable illness with difficult symptoms or problems.

Alex celebrated her 11th birthday with a special party on March 24 which was attended by friends from school and after school clubs.

The youngsters had a go at making their own chocolate like Willy Wonka.

They also did the Conga, played old fashioned party games and even tried meal worms.

This year Alexandra managed to raise £300 for charity.

Andy, said: “I think she gets a great deal of pride from it and we’re very proud of her, too.”

Neal Williams, trust secretary at Macmillan Caring Locally, said: “When Ola started fundraising for us she was our youngest supporter. We were so touched by her selfless contributions on her birthdays and her dedication to helping people in need.

"Ola’s outstanding support helps us to provide specialist palliative care at the Macmillan Unit and in the community. Ola is an inspiration and we are deeply grateful to her and her family for all they have done for our patients.”