CHRISTMAS came early for Ethan Valentine-Smith and his grateful family after last year’s festivities were put on hold when his father, Chris, underwent major heart surgery.

The 12-year-old Lansbury Bridge School pupil’s wish came true when he applied to Rays of Sunshine Children’s Charity to help his family enjoy a special Christmas celebration this year.

In December last year, Ethan’s dad had major heart surgery so the family weren’t able to celebrate Christmas as they would have wished. The family had a difficult time, especially 51-year-old mum Tracey who had Ethan and his siblings to look after on her own.

Ethan decided he wanted to do something special so asked Rays of Sunshine to grant his greatest wish for his family to celebrate Christmas in style.

The treat began when the charity delivered a Christmas tree and hung festive decorations throughout the family home.

“It was amazing,” said 54-year-old Chris, a self-employed accountant and business advisor.

“Last Saturday we were provided with tickets for the panto at Manchester Opera House and have more tickets for the Special Needs concert there on January 2 when Ethan has been promised he will be able to go on stage.

“He is a very popular pupil at Lansbury Bridge and enjoys music and singing.”

The family, from Blackbrook, enjoyed a feast to remember with dinner being kindly provided and served by Farrars Fancies of St Helens.

Christmas cake and mince pies finished off the banquet and Ray of Sunshine provided presents for Chris and Tracey, Ethan, his 18 year-old brother Shaun, sister Abbie, 16, brother Kenan, 10, and one year-old nephew Mason.