Appeal cues up for baize of glory

7:32pm Friday 26th January 2007

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POOL sharks are hoping to play around the clock to help raise money for a youngster struck down by a degenerative brain disease.

Nicholas Robinson, from Great Harwood, suffers from Alpers' Disease, a rare genetic disorder which causes the brain to kill off its cells, resulting in an increasing loss of skills and awareness.

Three-year-old Nicholas, who lives on Beech Road, was struck down by the illness at the age of two and is now unable to walk, talk or even smile.

Friends and family have set up a website and are hoping to raise £100,000 which will be used to make practical adaptations to Nicholas' home, including access for a wheelchair.

Money will also be donated to Derian House and the Rainbow Trust, which offers the family respite care.

A 24-hour pool and darts marathon is now being organised to boost the fund. The event will take place on Friday, March 2 at the Rishton Legion on Walmsley Street.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the players, or making a donation to the appeal, can contact the fundraising team through www.thenicholasappeal.co.uk or via The Nicholas Appeal, PO Box 217, Oswaldtwistle, BB5 9AT.