POLICE musicians hope to make life better for a disabled youngsters.

Rachel, an eight-year-old from Shildon, has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. She is deaf and blind, and cannot walk or sit unaided.

The youngster - whose adoptive parents do not wish to identify her more fully - needs a specialised bed costing £1,600.

Durham Constabulary's band and male voice choir have offered to help by donating the proceeds of their annual Christmas concert.

A Durham force spokeswoman said: "When she was born, she was given just six months to live, but her fighting spirit and the constant care of her adopted family has confounded the experts.

"Although medical advances may be able to offer some solutions, Rachel desperately needs a specialised bed, which will greatly improve her quality of life. The bed costs around £1,600, a sum way beyond the reach of her family. Her plight touched the hearts of those in the band and choir.''

The concert is on Saturday, December 16, at 7pm, at police headquarters, Aykley Heads, Durham.

Tickets cost £4 and are available from Sergeant Steve Taylor, on 0191-581 2255 or 0708 360158. People are advised to get tickets in advance, because last year's show was sold out before the day.

Anyone who cannot attend but would like to make a donation should also contact Sgt Taylor