A TODDLER who has a rare genetic condition which severely affects his eyesight has received specialised equipment to improve his quality of life following an appeal in the Target.

Charlie Brookes, three this month, from Swineshead has Aniridia, an incurable condition that means he has no iris in his eyes, and as a result is severely visually impaired, light sensitive and registered blind.

Last month his family and friends appealed on the Target front page for help to buy him two LCD Acrobat CCTV Magnifiers - one for home and one for use at his pre-school – which will allow him to see things more clearly.

And, after an overwhelming reaction which has seen donations and support for fundraising events come flooding in, Charlie took delivery of the first of the magnifiers at Swineshead Pre-School on Thursday.

Family friend and Charlie Brookes Trust secretary Wendy Mitchell thanked everyone that had come forward to help with the appeal.

She told the Target: "We had a fantastic response to the article from individuals, local businesses and organisations like Boston Ladies Circle and Fenland Round Table.

"We also had a lot of support for our moonlight walk in Swineshead.

"We have one of the maginifiers and hope to order the other one soon.

"It's going to make such a huge difference to Charlie to be able to maginfy things.

"Not being able to see things properly has affected all aspects of his development like his speech and confidence.

"It means so much to get this equipment and it will just be fantastic for Charlie."

To get involved with Charlie's campaign or to make a donation contact Wendy on (01205) 821756.