A fundraising drive to improve the quality of life for a seriously ill youngster has reached its £35,000 target in just six months.

Rosie Henry, who suffers from a rare degenerative neurological condition, had a trust fund set up by her parents to allow a bedroom with specialist equipment to be built at the family home in Romanby, near Northallerton.

The appeal, launched by Richard and Diane Henry, has proved such a success that they are now hoping to carry out the work shortly.

Mr Henry said: "We are amazed by the speed with which the money has been raised and are very grateful to all the people and organisations that have taken the time to help us help Rosie with their imaginative fundraising ideas.

"There are still many events planned for the summer and the money raised will still go towards Rosie's future care and give her a few treats, too."

To cap a successful time for the appeal, planning permission for the alterations to the house has also been secured.

The campaign to help Rosie has touched the hearts of people in Northallerton and much further afield, attracting some high-profile support.

Footballing legend Harry Gregg recently threw his weight behind the campaign, auctioning his first Northern Ireland cap.

The ex-Manchester United star, part of the famous Busby's Babes team of the mid-1950s, raised £1,300 at Sothebys with the gesture.

Mr Henry's colleagues in North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service have also done their bit, raising more than £20,000 through a series of events, including a Full Monty-style strip show.

The Allerton Players, of which Mr and Mrs Henry are members, added to the fund last week when they handed over nearly £1,000.

Mrs Henry said: "The amount of effort people have put in to help Rosie is quite overwhelming and we really appreciate all the help we have been given.