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£15,400 is Ryan's big total

John Fahey
9/12/2004

A STUNNING family night raised £500 for the Observer's Ryan Cottrell Appeal.

It boosted our final appeal total to a fantastic £15,429, surpassing all expectations.

The final instalment of cash came from the Brooks Club in Accrington after 200 folk attended the fun event, which was crammed with performances from talented singers.

Kevin McDonald, licensee at the Infant Street club, said: "We wanted to contribute to the appeal because it touched so many people. We had a great night and a big thank-you must go to the local businesses that donated prizes, such as a mountain bike, televisions and DVD players. It was a great evening, the singers went down well and everyone had fun."

Ryan, eight, suffers from the incurable skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosas (EB) where the slightest touch can leave blisters that rip and scar the body.

His plight touched the hearts of residents, community groups and businesses across Hyndburn. Young and old alike gave money, which they could sometimes barely afford, in a response that was overwhelming.

Ryan and his family, who live in Carter Street, Acc-rington, will soon be enjoying a magical Christmas holiday in Lapland.

Ryan, who attends Woodnook Primary School in Accrington, said: "I would like to thank everyone in Hyndburn who has given money to help me meet Santa in Lapland.

"We are really looking forward to going on holiday and have been buying new clothes for the cold weather."

Ryan will be joined on the trip of a lifetime by sister Amy, four, mum Amanda, 30, and dad Shaun, 34.

He said: "With the extra money, we are looking into buying Ryan an electric wheelchair. And after that it is up to Ryan to decide how the money is spent."

To read more about the appeal for Ryan, click here.