MONTHS of fundraising for little Connor Ventris-Field has paid off after he took his first steps on Friday.

Since July more than £21,000 has been raised for the five-year-old, who has cerebral palsy and as a result can not walk.

Among those invited to watch Connor in his new walking aid was chairman of Yorkley AFC, Mark Hudson and his wife, Porsche, who were among the main fundraisers.

Mark said: “It was a very emotional moment to see the remarkable young man on his own Innowalk when you could see how happy he was and how much it is going to help him in his quest to walk.

“His mum and dad, Tracy and Dave, have been overwhelmed by all of the fundraising efforts. In total, since July 18, we have raised £21,379.48. The Stand up and Walk for Connor, which has been so fantastically supported by friends, family, businesses and the community has raised an incredible £14,170.

“The donations have been amazing. From day one friends, family, team mates raised so much money I had people coming up to me in the street giving me donations – it was crazy. There are loads of people to thank for all of the rest of the fundraising but a huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in this.”

The Innowalk device was set-up by the Innowalk team, who ensured it was custom-fitted to Connor, at his Gloucester home. 

Mark added: “Funds raised from the Café René event on carnival day and other fundraising events will enable Dave and Tracy to order Connor an electric wheelchair which will help him in his challenge to get on his feet.

“Connor would like to thank you all for his Innowalk and for giving him a much better chance of getting up on his feet.”