HARRY Childs of Berry Hill has been given the best birthday present possible – an operation that could change his life.

Harry, who celebrates his eighth birthday at the beginning of September, has been told that he can have the operation which will take away the pain and may enable him to walk, next month.

A fantastic response to an appeal to raise £40,000 means that Harry will also be able to have the specialist post-operative care that he needs.

His condition causes extremely stiff muscles, meaning he is unable to walk, but it is hoped a selective dorsal rhizotomy at Bristol Children’s Hospital will transform his life.

Harry’s mum, Sasha Evans, said: “We were expecting a call from Bristol Children’s Hospital for a gait analysis but when they said he could have his surgery at the beginning of September, we were delighted.

“We’d like to say a massive thanks to everyone who has supported the appeal.”

Harry will be in hospital for a fortnight following the operation and his mum will stay at hotel in Bristol to be close by.

Ms Evans said: “This is really big for Harry and he is really excited.

“The main reason for having the operation is to take away the pain which is constant.”

Fund-raising efforts are continuing and there will be a concert for Harry at Christchurch parish church near Coleford.

The concert will feature the Forest Singers, Wyedean Gospel Choir, flautist Sarah Walcott and harpist Jemima Phillips. The MC for the evening will be Christchurch’s vicar Rev Tony Williams.

For more information contact Yvonne on (01594) 832428.

A table top sale outside the Co-op, organised by Jean Dowle, also raised £585 for the appeal.