THE chorus of a song that has been recorded locally to raise funds for Owen's Wish 2 Walk appeal says it all.

Mirabeau Bridge (I Had A Dream) has been recorded by the Waveney Voices with Rod Clark. Now on sale, all profits from the CD will be donated to help realise the dream of Owen Baldry and his family for the youngster to walk unaided for the very first time.

Since launching their appeal on January 25 to raise �50,000 to send Owen, who suffers from spastic diplegia, to America for the life-changing operation, Carl and Sacha Baldry have been thrilled with the backing of the community,

And as the appeal continues to receive widespread support, another barrier has been passed this week. Mr Baldry, of Dorley Dale, told The Journal: 'We now have over �45,000 in the appeal account and I'm sure we'll get there in the end.'

The appeal has been boosted by money from sporting challenges in the past week – after efforts in the London Marathon and the St Neots Sprint Triathlon.

Sarah and Moses Chowdhury both ran the London Marathon for Owen and made more than �1,300 for the appeal. Gary Flatt raised �2,340 for Owen's appeal by also completing the London Marathon – the first time he had ever competed in the marathon.

He was lucky enough to be offered a place in the race at short notice but that meant that he only had eight weeks to train. Mr Flatt said that during the race he 'hit the wall' at 18 miles and it was very hard going after that but the crowds were unbelievable and their encouragement helped him complete the course. He thanked all the supporters, which included many golfing colleagues, for their sponsorship.

John Neeve raised �1,330 for the appeal by taking part in the St Neots Sprint Triathlon. He swam 750m in the River Ouse, then tackled a gruelling 25K bike ride and finished with a 5K run. He completed the course in two hours which pleased him as it was the first time he had attempted such an event. He said that he had always wanted to do a triathlon but it was reading about Owen that inspired him to actually do it.

Also boosting the appeal, a street sale was held in Grand Avenue and Cliftonville Road in Pakefield. Last Friday at Pakefield church hall, the Baldrys received �300 from Janet Ellis and Zoiyar Cole.

On Saturday, July 7 at the Seagull Theatre, Rod Clark, Rollercoaster and the Waveney Voices will perform during an evening of rock n roll and country music from the 1950s. The appeal song will also be performed on the night, with the CD on sale.

Mr Clark said: 'It's a really good song and its perfect for Owen – I Had A Dream. The song is by a French/Canadian and I thought as it was a such a great song with a lovely hook on it, it would be ideal to record and sell for the appeal.'

The CD costs �3, and is on sale at the Seagull Theatre, the Third Crossing at Haven Marina, Red Herring in Oulton Broad and from Mr Clark on 01502 741056.

?To help the appeal call Mr Baldry on 07916 859 358 or donate online via www.justgiving.com/owenswish2walk