Local parents Keiha Longson and Wayne Mitchinson held a fund-raising event at Fleetwood rugby club in aid of the national charity after their son Wynter was diagnosed with the illness as a newborn. The genetic disorder that affects mainly the lungs and will remain with Wynter throughout his life.

“Wynter was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when he was just three weeks old. He’s now four months old and doing really well” said Keiha.

The new mum was overwhelmed by the support shown by the local community of the event which raised more than double her initial hope of £2,000.

“I didn’t expect such a good turn-out with so many people coming along. We’ve had so much support from Fleetwood people, local businesses and our families. Everyone has grafted to make the day a success.”

Keiha decided to organise the event following the support of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and learning of other local families whose children have also being diagnosed.

“These efforts are for all of us. With the Cystic Fibrosis Charity you know where the money is being spent and we are sent updates about new research and other useful information. They sent us a great fundraising pack with t-shirts and bunting to help organise the day.

“The rugby club is an ideal venue and we’ll hold future events here as well,” added Keiha.

The rugby club continues its community support on 6th May when it hosts a family fun day on behalf of The Prince’s Trust. The charity is hoping to raise money towards an £8,000 target to supply its fleet of Lancashire-based mini-buses with defibrillators. The event will feature live music and appearances with starts from the soap opera Emmerdale.

Image: Wynter Mitchinson with parents Wayne and Keiha Longson at Melbourne Avenue