THE plight of a Northallerton youngster has touched the hearts of local golfers.

Three-year-old Olivia Webster, of Brampton Road, was diagnosed with the terminal condition spinal muscular atrophy when 20 months old.

It has attacked her muscles and she is unable to walk, but like other victims, she is very bright, and hopes to attend her local school with other children when old enough.

She gets around expertly in her electric wheelchair and was guest of honour at Northallerton and Thirsk golf club, on Monday, when a cheque for £4,218.70p was handed to her mother, Helen.

The money will go towards converting the family home to cope with Olivia's handicap; the total cost will be about £30,000.

When club captain, Roy Jameson, and lady's captain, Val White, heard about Olivia, it was decided to make the fund this year's charity.

"We organised a golf competition, in which 120 players took part, followed by an auction," said Mr Jameson.

Mrs Webster said: "We really cannot thank everyone at the golf club enough. This is really a staggering amount of money, which will be put to good use."

International cricketer Ian Botham also become involved in fundraising and took part in a charity match recently.