Little Millie closes in on Disney dream

Millie Moran with gran Vicky Shaw and mum Heather Clarke

A CRUSADE to send an exceptionally brave little girl on a magical journey is nearing the halfway mark.

Oldhamers have rallied to help raise funds to send Millie Moran to Disney World Florida.

The Disney dream drive began earlier this year to fulfil a promise her devoted gran, Vicky Shaw, from Springhead, made to the resilient four-year-old after she came back from the brink of death in 2015 following weeks of devastating illness caused by a life-threatening lung infection.

Millie has so far endured over 30 operations in her short life after being born with a rare form of spina bifida and hydrocephalus. She also suffers from epilepsy, chronic lung disease and is paralysed from the waist down.

Local folk and businesses have generously donated and staged events to raise money for the race-against-time trip which requires infection-prone Millie to be intensive care free for 12 months.

So far over £4,000 has poured in to the fund - set up by Vicky and Millie's mum, Emma Clarke - which has a target of £10,000, plus insurance costs which could be as high as £2,000.

A memorial event to honour Royton cricketing stalwart, Trevor Lewis, in May, raised a fantastic £1,120.

The Angel Inn, in Royton, is staging a "Millie's Dream" fun day on August 28, from 2-6pm, with a visit from Elsa and Anna as Millie is a huge Frozen fan, a bouncy castle, fire brigade visit, games, disco and refreshments, and Milan Bar, in Lees, is staging one of its popular comedy nights on July 28, at 7.30pm, in Millie's honour.

Vicky and Emma are busy selling tickets for a grand charity dinner, at St Herbert's Parish Hall - which has been donated for free - on September 30.

Hosted by Oldham compere and auctioneer, Michael Bradshaw, who is giving his services for free, it includes a three-course meal, bingo, auction and raffle and will be a fantastic celebration and tribute to Millie who will be there to enjoy the party.

"We're really looking forward to the charity ball," said Vicky.

"It will be an amazing night and so many people have given their time and donations to help make it a success. We're hoping quite a few local dignitaries will come along and support use.

"We've still got tickets left so come and bring a table of guests along for a brilliant night out."

INKcomparable printers, in Waterhead, have designed and printed all the posters, tickets and menus for the event at minimal cost and S&S Pallet Services, in Derker, picked up the bill.

Vouchers and prizes have been donated by a host of local businesses including Beyond Beauty, in Royton; Slender World and Claire's Hairdressers, in Lees; Friday's Chippy, in Springhead; Face and Body, in Grotton, and Pamper Your Princess, in Shaw.

Springhead parish councillor, Steven Hewitt, is arranging a fun day along with Springhead Football Club to boost funds and the local Costcutter, in Carr House Road, has set up a charity box with local shoppers raising almost £100 by donating their change.

Sharon Graham Photography, in Failsworth, has offered to take memento pictures of Millie at the charity ball and Howard's Domestics, in Shaw, gave a generous cash donation.

"Emma and I been overwhelmed by the response from people," said Vicky.

"It's been amazing and people have been very supportive, particularly small local businesses. I can't thank them enough.

"We're still looking for raffle prizes though if anyone can donate anything."

If wish to buy tickets for the grand ball or you can help out with donations call 07957732536.