Little Evie set to switch on Market Drayton's Christmas lights
She's the six-year-old girl who stole the hearts of the people of Market Drayton. Now little Evie Poole is set to light up the town for Christmas as a thank you for the "amazing support" she has received.
Evie, who suffers from cerebral palsy and walks with the help of a frame, underwent major surgery in America on her legs and spine five weeks ago in the hope of one day being able to walk independently.
Much of the £50,000 needed for the operation was paid for thanks to cash raised from charity events held in Market Drayton. People rallied around in huge numbers after Evie was initially refused funding for the vital operation by South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust.
Now it has been announced that Evie – who has made "remarkable" progress since returning home – will switch on Market Drayton's Christmas lights on November 23.
Her father Jonathan Poole said his daughter had had a "really big smile" on her face since being asked to perform the role, and added he was delighted at how Evie was doing following surgery.
He said: "The difference with her legs is just incredible, it's a complete change. The range of movement she now has means she can put her legs wherever she wants them and she can also put her feet flat on the floor which was just impossible before." He added: "When we went out before she would really have to hold on to my hand but now it's just a light touch, you can see her getting stronger all the time."
He said: "This has all been possible thanks to the people of Market Drayton, and Evie and I cannot thank them enough.
"It will never stop amazing us just how incredible everyone has been."
Mr Poole added Evie is really looking forward to turning on the town's Christmas lights.
