More than 1,000 people turned out at Whitton United Football Club in Ipswich on Saturday, to help raise funds for a child with a rare muscular condition.

Mum Laura Barber, 30, organised George’s Fun Day after the success of last year’s event, to help her three-year-old son George Woodward, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy – a condition that causes muscle deterioration and can lead to severe disability.

The fun day included a variety of activities and entertainment for all the family, including appearances from Mickey Mouse and Lightning McQueen, a barbecue, face painting, Punch and Judy, majorettes, dancing groups and local stall holders.

The event, sponsored by Kidzone and supported by Asda, helped raise £9,000 towards the £22,000 needed for George’s wheelchair.

Overwhelmed mum Miss Barber, said: “It was amazing. It’s absolutely brilliant to see all those people there to support George, and raise money and awareness for his condition – it’s very touching.

“He is doing well and is a very happy little boy. He is still doing everything he wants to do and having a lot of fun.”

Work to being renovating the family’s house in Lagonda Drive is set to begin in September, after a successful fundraising campaign, which will help adapt the house for George including height-adjustable bathroom facilities and a lift.