GENEROUS Gazette readers and residents have rallied round after calls to raise funds for vital equipment for a disabled baby from Clacton.

The Gazette has teamed up with the Harvey family and The Tavern, in Holland-on-Sea, to raise £2,000 for specialist equipment for little Iyla Rose.

Iyla Rose was diagnosed with Wolf Hirschhorn syndrome when she was born in October last year.

The genetic disorder affects many parts of the body, causing abnormalities and delayed growth, which saw Iyla Rose spend the first five months of her life in hospital.

It is hoped a total of £2,000 can be raised to pay for a new pram, which has a side basket to carry Iyla Rose’s feeding pump and other equipment.

A campaign page set up by dad Matt Harvey has so far raised £1,080, and Gazette readers have also donated more than £400 in less than a week.

Gazette editor Aynsley Davidson said: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the Clacton community.

“We hope residents will dig deep to help raise the final £500 at the special charity event at The Tavern on Saturday.”

Anyone who would like donate to the campaign can do so at the Gazette’s office in Jackson Road, Clacton, the Tavern, in Frinton Road, Holland-on-Sea or online at gofundme.com/ejng1k.