LADIES at Slimming World in Lydney are raising money to fund a £30,000 operation that will enable a seven-year-old cerebral palsy sufferer to walk unaided.

Little Jamie Parker, who has suffered from cerebral palsy from the age of 18 months, needs an operation to straighten his spine – however the procedure isn't funded by the NHS.

As part of their national six-week slimathon fundraiser, the ladies at at Slimming World on Springfield Road in Lydney have been working hard to lose weight, and raise money for the cause.

Slimming World consultant, Kim Roberts said: "Slimming World launched a national six-week slimathon challenge whereby people sponsor slimmers to lose weight and the proceeds go to a charity of their choice. The 15 ladies worked very hard to lose in total just over five stone which was fantastic and raised £750."

"We chose to raise money for Jamie and his family because it's for a good cause and the family are well-known in the community. We know that for some time the family have been desperately trying to raise money to help their son through many other events. At the moment it's looking like Jamie will have to travel to the USA to have his operation but the family are hoping it can be done in the UK. If anybody could donate, big or small, it would be greatly appreciated."