The family of an Ilford girl with cerebral palsy have raised more than £2,000 towards an operation to help her walk.

But £34,000 more is needed to pay for the life-changing operation for 10-year-old Esha Ilyas.

Esha, of Mortlake Road, cannot stand without help and has to use a frame to walk and a wheelchair for longer distances.

Mum Manisha Modhvadia said the NHS refused to pay for a selective dorsal rhizotomy, which could stop her daughter needing the walking aids, splints and painful treatment she has had since she was a toddler.

A fun day in Ilford earlier this month raised £800 towards the operation and people have been making donations online since the appeal started last month.

Manisha said: “We have had about £2,300 so far but there’s a long way to go.

“It’s a been a little bit slow but we’re surprised we’ve raised so much - one person anonymously donated £500.”

It is hoped Esha will have the operation by March so she will be able to walk by the time she starts at secondary school.

To donate towards the operation, visit www.eshasdreamtowalk.org.uk.