A CARLTON Colville couple's dream of raising �50,000 for life-changing treatment for their three-year-old son moved a big step closer this week – after their appeal hit another major milestone.

The Journal revealed last week that the campaign to help Owen Baldry realise his dream of walking unaided had amassed more than �30,000 within less than four months. But in the past week, an 'amazing' spell of fund-raising and donations has seen the Owen's Wish2Walk appeal surge past the �35,000 barrier.

Carl and Sacha Baldry, of Dorley Dale, began fund-raising on January 25 to send Owen to America for treatment unavailable to him on the NHS, and since then they have been taken aback by the support they have received.

This week the appeal was boosted by the single biggest donation so far when Lowestoft-based sports goods manufacturer Harrod UK contributed �2,000, with a further �600-plus raised by its staff.

The company's managing director, Stephanie Harrod, said: 'Owen's father works for Smith Brothers Timber, one of our suppliers and that's how we got to hear about Owen's bid to raise the money required for his operation.

'We're delighted to support a local family and follow Owen's personal journey and if the money we have donated helps him reach his target quicker than expected and hopefully one day sees him walk, that will be fantastic.

'Our staff feel the same way and that's why they organised a coffee and cake morning, which brought in a further �500.'

Mr Baldry said the bank holiday weekend had been 'amazing' for the appeal. He said: 'First Harrod UK donated a �2,000 cheque, and then Stephanie Harrod brought Owen a Bob the Builder tool box play set and our daughter Katie a Barbie doll set. Both of them were over the moon with their gifts.

'Owen also got a load of collectable toy cars from Ron Harrod and he loves those too. The Harrod UK staff also held a tea and cake morning for Owen, and sold some raffle tickets for Saturday's event, raising just over �600 through this. We're so grateful for everyone's generosity and support.'

Meanwhile, a group of cyclists in fancy dress collected donations in Lowestoft and Oulton Broad, and last Sunday a charity football match was held.

Tomorrow, a bag packing session will be held at Tesco in Gunton from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday The Journal will be supporting a charity football match at Crown Meadow at 2.30pm, with spectators welcome.

?To help the appeal or to organise a fund-raising event, ring Mr Baldry on 07916 859358. To donate online, visit www.justgiving.com/owenswish2walk or www.owenwish2walk.co.uk