A Birchington mum hosted a fundraising evening to help her daughter in the fight against a debilitating disease.

Helena Russell is 13 months old and has been diagnosed with Type 1 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic condition which affects the nerves that control muscle movement, the motor neurons.

Helena’s mother Charlotte first noticed signs of the condition shortly after the birth and has been trying to raise awareness of the condition and funds for equipment such as an electronic wheelchair since January.

The dinner and auction held at Smugglers restaurant in Birchington on Friday raised more than £2000 for the Help for Helena cause.

Charlotte, 29, of Stone Barn Avenue, said: “This was a very successful dinner, tombola and auction and in all raised £2,068 towards the fund.

“Through what has been the hardest time of our lives, the good that has come from it is the truly overwhelming.

“We have received huge displays of support and kindness.

“The contact people have made to try and offer any help that they can both with fundraising and the treatment access campaign has been amazing.

Charlotte is planning to audition for the XFactor on Sunday.

She added: “If I am successful this could help to publicise our desperate plight to access treatment for Helena and all children with SMA.

“My Nan, who turns 90 in July, is also planning a five kilometre sponsored walk on June 5.

“She is hoping to raise funds and show that able bodied pensioners are supporting a baby girl not even being given the chance to sit unsupported.”