AN EMOTIONAL Wendy Smith wiped away a tear from her eye as she came back on stage with baby Leon-Roy to claim first prize in the Star Mother and Baby competition

Brave Leon-Roy, who is son of a former Saints rugby favourite Roy Haggerty, was born with only half a heart and has battled against the condition ever since.

For elated parents Roy and Wendy the achievement marked "one of the most special days in their lives". Wendy told the Star: "It's a day we never thought we'd see. We never thought we'd make it this far. He really deserves it, he's been through a really bad few years, fought from day one and he's still fighting.

"If I'd won and got nothing it wouldn't matter. It was just that I was able to show off my son on the stage. When he was first born, I didn't get the chance because he was so ill, but the competition gave me the opportunity."

Little belter, Leon-Roy, looked to be thoroughly enjoying himself as he sat with dad Roy, who said: " He's such a bubbly lad, and he deserves it so much. They all love him up in Haydock."

Second place went to Adele Ibbotson and 17-month-old daughter Alysha, who are from Rainford.

Mum Adele, is a qualified hairdresser but when she completes a college course in animal care, she hopes to combine these skills and move into dog grooming!

Adele described Alysha as a "bold and beautiful" baby and added that she loved taking part in the event.

Cheryl Robinson and son Lewis, aged 17-months, from Eccleston claimed third prize. A delighted Cheryl said: "It's brilliant, I didn't expect to win at all. They were all beautiful babies, so I'm a very proud mother. He makes my eyes twinkle."