HUNDREDS of balloons were released into a clear blue sky to raise money for a little boy who has cerebral palsy.

Two-year-old Joshua Peacock listened to the crowds cheering as almost 600 colourful balloons floated away into the distance from Broomfield School, in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

Released after the infants' sports day, the balloons were sold for £1.25 each to friends, family, school parents and locals to raise funds to pay for vital equipment for the toddler.

"It is remarkable how many people bought the balloons and how kind and supportive everyone has been," said Josh's father Joe Peacock, of St James' Drive, Northallerton.

"Josh can't see, but he was able to hear the crowds and feel the warmth of the day and he really loved it. The whole family did."

Josh's mother, Vikki, and her two other sons, Owen, three, and Thomas, six, who attend the school, were at Broomfield when the balloons were released.

"It was a huge success and a big thank you has to be said to the school for letting it happen," said fundraiser and family friend Joan Finn, of Harebell Close, Northallerton.

"Balloons over Teesside and The Card Store, in Northallerton, both donated the balloons and Barkers store donated the £30 prize for the person whose balloon goes the farthest."

Joshua suffers from micro cephaly, leaving him brain damaged and with delayed development.

The funds raised from the event will help the family pay for specialist bathroom and bedroom equipment for the youngster.

Anyone who wants to help raise money for Joshua can contact Joan Finn on (01609) 766831.