ONLY £1,000 stands between a North Yorkshire toddler and an opportunity to break free from autism.

The condition means four-year-old Jake Burgess, of Catterick Village, can see, hear and feel, but is unable to communicate.

Jake's father, Tim, and mother, Claire, have set their hearts on revolutionary treatment for their son in America, and have been the focus of a fundraising appeal launched by their friends in March.

Before the weekend, there was around £4,000 in the bank, towards a target of £10,000.

But, on Saturday, another £5,000 was raised, when 17 teams took part in tests of initiative and stamina at the Infantry Training Centre, at Catterick Garrison.

"It was absolutely fantastic," said Tim yesterday. "We were hoping it would raise around £2,000, but never expected to bring in more than twice that.

"Over 100 people took part, and the Army were brilliant. We can't thank them enough for giving up their own time to help us."

More events are in the pipeline to raise the final £1,000 that the couple need