A CAMPAIGN to help a Portskewett toddler to walk unaided has received a boost.

The Help Imogen Walk campaign was set up two weeks ago to help two-year-old Imogen Ashwell-Lewis, after she was diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy.

Her spastic diplegia means that she is in desperate need of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) treatment which will enable her to walk unaided.

Imogen has gained support from Monmouth-based Chase Vaughan and her family. Seven-year-old Chase received SDR treatment in June.

Her mum Helen, said: "I was initially friends with Imogen's mum Catherine on Facebook through the support group for people receiving SDR treatment.

"We're supporting Imogen's family by offering as much support as we can. I'm able to offer her advice and contacts that I've built up.

"I'm pregnant at the moment but I'm hoping to attend as many events with Imogen as I can.

"Chase is doing amazingly well, the treatment has made such a difference to her life. It's hoped that in six to 12 months she'll be out of splints. She's improved in all areas of her life and it's made an amazing difference all round."

Chepstow Round Table has shown its support for Imogen. At the group's last meeting it pledged to donate £1,000 to the cause and offered to support the fundraising events already planned.

Martin Curtis, Chairman of Chepstow and District Round Table, said: "I'm really proud of the guys. We aren't a big group any more, with only seven tablers, but with the help of our honourary members and members from 41 Club we know we can help make a difference to Imogen's life.

Catherine Ashwell-Rice, Imogen's mother, spoke of the support that the campaign has received. She said: "The support so far has been amazing. I'm making some lovely new friends and discovering just how kind strangers can be.

"Chase's mum Helen has been great over the last few months by keeping me up to date on Chase's great progress and offering both practical and emotional support.

"Having somebody who has already been through this process is invaluable.

"Chase is not only a perfect role model for Imogen but will also be attending as many of Imogen's fundraising events as possible. Imogen already wants to join Chase's cerebral palsy football club.

"Both Helen and Chase are supporting our fundraising in every way they can, taking into account that Chase only had her surgery recently and is still undergoing a lot of rehab."

The Help Imogen Walk fun day will be held at the Severn View Club, Caldicot on Saturday 29th March from 11am to 5pm. There will be a bouncy castle, fire engine, barbecue, raffle, prizes and more.