NEWS comes in all forms, often heart-breaking sometimes heart-warming.

So it is with the story of Lucy Branton, the five-year-old disabled girl whose wheelchair was pushed into a busy York road by a teenage thug.

When the Press reported what happened to Lucy, there was anger and disbelief at such a despicable act. That was the heart-sinking moment.

Now comes the inspirational part: Lucy's family have been amazed by the support they have received from readers, who have sent gifts, cards and flowers.

So a callous act against a defenceless girl has brought out the goodness in other people.

Lucy's mother, who was so shaken by the original incident, says her faith in human nature has been restored.

Bradley Brough is also five, which is in itself a bit of a miracle. This little boy was born with five heart defects and was expected to die within six months. Yet here he is, still fighting. Who cannot be moved when Bradley's father says he has "never seen anyone fight so hard for a chance at life"?

Another inspirational moment.

The spirits are lifted further by York office worker Paul Thomas, who is taking two weeks off work to help tsunami victims in Sri Lanka.

Paul will be helping to lay the foundations for a new school. His dedication to others deserves our admiration.

Updated: 09:37 Friday, February 11, 2005