Evie's fund tops £20k in just three months

Evie Poole is unable to walk unaided after being diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition which causes problems with movement and co-ordination.

In a bid to help his daughter, Evie's dad, Jonathan Poole, a paramedic from Market Drayton, applied for corrective surgery, but bosses at South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust have refused to pay for the £50,000 operation.

Now people in Market Drayton are rallying round to help the youngster.

The latest fundraisers aiming to help the campaign are scout leaders Scott Reay, Jo Jackson and Jonathan Jones.

The trio, who volunteer with Market Drayton Scouts, are all set to compete in the town's 10k road race which is taking place on May 12.

Mr Reay said: "Following the 10k event last year we all got together and vowed that this year the three of us would take part.

"It's always nice to raise money for the scouts but sometimes a cause grabs your attention. So when we heard about Evie we decided that this year we would run for her.

"One of our beavers is Evie's cousin so it is a cause close to our hearts. It's always nice to help and I think it's great that the money is going to a local girl."

Mr Reay said the three runners would be encouraging one another to finish in under an hour. He said: "We're not professional runners but we have done a little bit of training. We are looking to hold our own and I'm sure we won't come last. I hope not anyway."

Youngsters from Market Drayton Scouts will be at the event holding collection tins for Evie.

Mr Poole said: "The support that is continuing to flood in for Evie is just amazing.

"So much is going on that it's hard to keep up with it all but we are so grateful and I want to say a big thankyou to everyone who is helping.

"Every day I'm shocked and surprised at the kindness of people who want to donate, we have had such great support.

"To get to the £20,000 is incredible and we will continue until we hit the magic £50,000 target."