A KIND-HEARTED builder is hoping to raise thousands of pounds to help provide life-changing treatment for a youngster with cerebral palsy.

Ian Wall, from Eaglescliffe, is raising money for three-year-old Oscar Worton, who has cerebral palsy, a life-long condition which affects movement and posture.

Money raised by Mr Wall will enable Oscar to continue his twice-yearly treatment at the Bobath Centre, in London, that experts say could improve his condition.

Doctors hope the treatment could help Oscar, who was diagnosed with the condition when he was a few months old, to walk unaided.

Mr Wall, 48, started raising money for Oscar two years ago after reading of the youngster's plight in the local press.

Mr Wall has previously had his back waxed for the cause and is now hoping to raise the £2,800 needed for Oscar's next two weeks of intensive treatment by holding a prize draw.

He has already raised £1,300 in cash donations from local businesses and ticket sales. Many companies have also donated prizes for the raffle.

Mr Wall said: "I used to run a junior football team and when I read the article, I thought 'there's me training lads to play football and there is this poor little boy who can't even walk'. And especially with him being a local boy, I just had to try and help him."

Oscar's mother, Julie, of Forest Lane, Kirklevington, said: "Ian has been amazing."

* The prize draw will be held on Saturday, April 21, at 4pm, in Darlington, where Mr Wall works. Tickets are available on the day or in advance from Borges, in Stockton, or Mr Wall on 07970-125372.