AN AEROBATHON aimed at helping a four-year-old Barry girl undergo a life-changing operation, has worked up a £500 total so far.

Fundraisers raised more than £48,000 to help Niamh Tarran, who has cerebral palsy, to walk with a final £12,000 push geared towards surgery which will assist before her fifth birthday in December.

Niamh's mother Emma Farrugia is hoping the total can be achieved while the procedure can obtain maximum success and her daughter can sit safely and stand and walk unaided.

The fundraising efforts will enable them travel to St Louis, Missouri for the Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy procedure that would see Niamh able to walk independently.

Family friend and event organiser Michelle Hunt said: “If people can think of any other ideas how big or small to help raise further money that would be fantastic. If everyone in Barry could just give 50 pence, she would be on her way to America for the operation she needs.

“The day couldn’t have gone ahead without the help and support I received from Carys Ogden, Rosemary Bird, Jordan Harrison, DJ for the day at the event, and of course Sarah Cayton who runs Cardio Core and let us use the venue free of charge.”

The next event, Ladies Day, organised by Mags Ellis, will take place at the King William IV pub, known as The Billy, Cadoxton, from midday on May 4.

There will be a variety of activities - pamper corner, barbecue, raffle and skittles.

Tickets cost £2 and are available from the bar or Mags on 07722 529544.

To donate to Niamh's fund, visit justgiving.com/NiamhNeedsToWalk