AN appeal to help a three-year-old Carlton Colville boy realise his dream of walking unaided is continuing to close on its target, thanks to generous support from throughout the community.

After a busy weekend of fund-raising, Owen's Wish2Walk appeal has received another wave of donations.

Carl and Sacha Baldry, of Dorley Dale, are trying raise �50,000 to send their son Owen to America for the life-changing operation that could help him walk unaided for the first time.

Since the appeal was launched on January 25, they have been overwhelmed by local support.

Last Friday, the appeal was boosted by a Zumba evening with Helen Pybus at Fen Park, which raised more than �300. The Baldrys then visited the Seagull Theatre in Pakefield for an Old Tyme Music Hall event, produced and directed by Marion Small, which saw �205 raised. The money will be split equally between the appeal and the theatre.

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Robyn Bartlett said: 'The music hall proved a success with superb performances by the cast and with the Baldry family taking the stage to join them at the end of the evening.'

On Saturday, the Baldrys held a collection at the Britten Centre in Lowestoft, which raised �330, and on Sunday a well-attended jubilee fete was held at Saxon Road church in Pakefield. The amount raised at the event is still to be declared.

Mr Baldry said: 'In the evening we had a quiz night at the Ole Frank pub, which was a great night, and we'd like to thank Ritchie, Glen and Gary High for their donations on the night, and the lovely buffet, as �400 was raised.'

On Monday, there was a street sale around Grand Avenue and Cliftonville Road areas of Pakefield. The final sum raised is still to be announced.

Meanwhile, an 11-a-side football tournament was held at the Uplands Community Centre in Carlton Colville, with Corton Seltic U30, an over-30 side and Carlton AFC all taking part. It was won by Corton Seltic U30 and at least �400 was raised, with more money to come in.

The appeal is seeking to send Owen, who suffers from spastic diplegia, to St Louis for treatment that is unavailable to him on the NHS. The total now stands at more than �43,000, with more donations still to bank.

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