Get the Glasgow stories that matter to you sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter Sign me up Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A Glasgow schoolgirl has been left starstruck after receiving an email from the First Minister herself.

Ava Sajed from Partick wrote a letter to Nicola Sturgeon thanking her for keeping her mum, who has multiple sclerosis, safe and asking that she let children know that the lockdown will be over soon.

The seven-year-old, who wants to be Prime Minister and a doctor for the NHS when she grows up, said receiving the reply was the "best day of her life".

Ava is currently shielding with mum Elisa who undergoing treatment for MS, brother Aiden, who is autistic and a has a learning disability and dad Hamza.

Writing to the First Minister, Ava said: "I was thinking about something important so I had to write to you. I have to say thank you because maybe people don't say thank you to you but they should because you are trying your best.

"My mum is sick and is losing her hair but you are trying to keep her safe.

"I also wanted to let you know that my little brother has learning difficulties and does not understand coronavirus but I am helping him. It is his birthday on 28th April and my mum is making a beach in the house! So cool.

"There are so many kids in Scotland that might be lonely and scared. Please let them know that this will be over soon and we can feel safe again soon."

Ava's mum Elisa emailed the letter over to Ms Sturgeon's office and received a reply.

Writing to Ava, the First Minister said: "I have just received your lovely letter and wanted to say thank you. You have really cheered me up and made my day extra special.

"I think it's really great that you are helping your little brother understand coronavirus - that's a really thoughtful thing to do. I'm sure you're also helping your mum and dad a lot too.

"I'm sure you're also finding all of this a bit difficult at times so I hope you're taking care of yourself.

"Hopefully it won't be long before things go back to normal a bit. In the meantime, stay safe - and I hope you and your brother still manage to have some fun! The beach in the house sounds awesome! Wish your birthday a happy birthday from me."

Elisa praised Nicola for her quick response and for making the lockdown easier on Ava, who is also autisic.

Speaking to Glasgow Live , she said: "She couldn’t believe it, she said it was the best day of her life!

"That’s the kind of leadership we need, because our kids will remember this time for the rest of their lives in a way that we won’t."

"Ava is actually autistic too but she calls it her superpower. She is really organised and is really passionate about equality (at 7!)."