Ralph Mattison-Evans

A chance to go out in the big wide world is coming closer for a desperately-ill little boy from Minster, with two fun, fund-raising events on Sunday August 30.

Two-year-old Ralph Mattison-Evans has nemaline myopathy, also known as floppy baby syndrome, which seriously limits his life and means his family cannot take him out and about without specialised transport.

One of his carers, Christine Chittenden, from Herne Bay, launched the Wheels For Ralph campaign in KM Group newspapers, including the Isle of Thanet Extra.

The campaign has gathered momentum with people planning events and making donations, although it has a long way to go towards its £25,000 target for a specially-adapted vehicle to take him out.

A Fun Day on Minster Recreation Ground from noon until 5pm on Sunday will feature stalls, children's fancy dress competition, dog competition, entertainment and games, and a karaoke competition.

Other entertainment includes a martial arts display, a magician, Elvis impersonator, baton display, face painting, bouncy castle, fire engine and carft and book stalls.

Also on Sunday is an After Party for Wheels for Ralph at the Westgate Pavilion, with a request disco from 8pm until late. Entry is by donation, and all ages are welcome.

Organisers are hoping people will support one or both events, and help little Ralph to enjoy his life a bit more.

His mum Sarah Mattison, who has three other young children, said: "I am so grateful for the support. The car will make such a difference to Ralph's life as he has not been out for a year and a half.

"It means so much that people are willing to give some of their time and money to make things more enjoyable for him.

"He really needs to get out to experience some of the world around him."

She added: "I know it is a big hope, but it would be so wonderful if we could get the vehicle we need before winter when Ralph will no longer be able to go into the garden."

A new website has been set up to publicise campaign news. Visit www.wheelsforralph.com