A FUNDRAISING campaign to enable a Riddlesden toddler to undergo life-changing surgery has so far coined-in over £14,000.

Family of little Ryan Weatherall say they have been overwhelmed by the public response to the appeal, launched less than three months ago.

The aim is to raise £40,000 for special surgery so the four-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, can run about and play with his friends.

Currently, Ryan struggles to walk without a frame due to severe tightness in his legs.

"We are absolutely thrilled and moved by the generosity of local people," said mum Carla.

"At the start of this journey we never would have believed that we'd achieve so much in under three months.

"Family, friends and many people who we don't know have come forward to help us.

"We're extremely grateful and would like to say a huge thank-you to everyone who has supported us to get where we are today."

Recent fundraising events have included a race night and raffle staged by AJ's Bar, in Parkwood Street, Keighley, which raised £1,600.

Several people are tackling personal challenges in support of the cause, including running the Liverpool half-marathon and Bradford 10k, cycling the equivalent height of the national Three Peaks and a bike challenge on Stage Three of the Tour de Yorkshire.

And a big band night is being held at Victoria Hall, Keighley, on June 17.

It will feature Soul Train, an 11-piece traditional soul band which will perform classic hits.

Host will be burlesque singer Kiki deVille, who appeared on hit TV show The Voice in 2014.

There'll also be a raffle, tombola and snacks available to buy.

Ryan's family hopes the extravaganza will take the fundraising total to £20,000.

Tickets are available, priced £12, from ryanswishtowalk.com/events or by calling 07989 508948.

Ryan was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was two-and-a-half years old.

He stumbles and falls regularly due to the condition.

He has been accepted by Leeds Children's Hospital for surgery known as Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR), which involves cutting some of the damaged nerves in the lower spine.

But the operation is not available on the NHS.

The £40,000 would pay for the surgery and subsequent physio.

Ultimately, the operation will help Ryan to walk unaided, for longer and without pain.

For more details, visit facebook.com/ryanswishtowalk.