AN afternoon of fun activities at Yorkley Community Centre raised £700 for the campaign to buy a village toddler a series of life-changing back braces.

The family of three-year-old Ruby Williams, who has scoliosis – curvature of the spine – are hoping to raise around £10,000.

The event was organised by Ruby’s mum Melissa, with the help of Jade Carter and Dan Powell of Black Rock Reptiles in Coleford.

Melissa said: “It was a fantastic day and I couldn’t have done it without Jade and Dan.

“It was all overwhelming – you don’t know how much people care until you organise something like this.”

Ruby was also able to get behind the wheel of a tractor, one of several vehicles brought along by the Forest Vintage Vehicle and Machinery Club.

The next event being planned is a Disney ball at Viney Hill Football Club on Saturday, November 4 with children invited to dress as their favourite character.

Melissa said: “The club has very generously given us the hall for free and there will be a prize for the best costume.”