A CAMPAIGN to raise cash for a new wheel chair for a charity worker is well on its way to reaching its target.

An appeal was launched last year to raise cash to buy an electric wheelchair for fund-raiser Ellen Small, of St James' Estate, Darwen.

Ellen, 52, who suffers from crippling multiple sclerosis, has raised thousands of pounds for needy people all over East Lancashire. But now her medical condition means she is unable to get about without help.

Friends have been helping Ellen to attend Rossendale Methodist Church but a pioneering wheelchair which can electronically lift itself into a specially adapted car, would give her back her independence to help her continue her charity work.

Blackburn-based brewery Thwaites's heard of Ellen's appeal and was quick to offer assistance for the £10,000 appeal.

The Daniel Thwaites charitable trust presented Ellen with £500 bringing the total raised to £8,500.

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