MELKSHAM mum Julie Feltham believes that Trowbridge children’s charity Stepping Stones is a great asset and the community should rally round to keep it going.

Miss Feltham’s three-year-old son Liam Collins has been going to the centre, which serves west Wiltshire children with learning difficulties and disabilities, since September 2012.

Liam has a life-threatening condition called hydrohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, which means he cannot sweat. He also has vision problems and epilepsy.

Last month Stepping Stones lost £10,000 of funding from Wiltshire Council after central government withdrew its Aiming High For Disabled Children grants.

The Wiltshire Times started the Give Us a Chance campaign to help the charity make up the shortfall and last week it reached the £10,000 target. Overwhelmed by the public support for Stepping Stones the Times has decided to continue the appeal for the charity, which needs to raise £50,000 a year, with the tally currently standing at £11,314.

Mother-of-six Miss Feltham, who lives with Liam’s dad Richard Collins, said: “The support from Stepping Stones has been brilliant and in the last six months Liam has come on so much.

“One of the big things is that he can now roll over by himself, which doesn’t sound like much, but it is great progress.

“Having a child with special needs really makes you feel like you’re taking on the whole world alone, but it is good to know that Stepping Stones is there for you.”

Liam comes to two sessions a week at the centre in Broadcloth Lane to work on his mobility and communication.

Playroom manager Judy Hennessey said: “We love Liam and it is great to see how he has developed.

“With children who have complex needs like Liam we work in repetition offering them routine activities over and over to build their confidence and knowledge.

“Looking at each child’s needs is our highest priority and we ensure that sessions are in the best interests of each individual.”

To fundraise, call 01225 350004 or email barbara@ steppingstones.plus.com