A CHARITY based in St Helens raised more than £1,500 to buy a walking frame for a disabled girl from the town.

The Helen Marie Charity is giving the frame to the family, who do not wish to be identified, this week.

The walking aid was bought at a cost of £1,677, which has been raised through a number of activities held throughout the year, including 1940s nights, coffee mornings, barn dances and galas.

The Helen Marie Charity was set up in 1985 by Arthur and Marjorie Hurst, in memory of their 12-year-old daughter Helen Marie Hurst's life was cut short by a terminal illness.

Founding member and fundraiser Margorie Hurst, wife of the charity's chairman Arthur, said: "We raise money for people in need in St Helens. We only give to it people whose cases come recommended by local authorities.

"In this case, we are helping a little girl to walk. The family couldn't afford the frame so we stepped in to help when we heard about it."

A presentation was held at Atlas House where the Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, councillors Steve and Lynn Glover, along with Edel Browne of St Helens Council's children with disabilities team, were on hand to collect the frame on behalf of the council's Children and Young People's Services.

Edel Browne said: "I would like to thank Arthur and Marjorie - and the rest of the team at the Helen Marie charity - for their continued support and generosity which enhances opportunities for children and young people in St Helens with disabilities."