A six-year-old sufferer of cerebral palsy is bravely trying to walk for the first time - and has launched a video to ask for public help.

Little Reece Walker from Stanford-le-Hope, who is a big football fan, is trying to make his first steps after a life-changing spinal operation.

The youngster went to America in 2012 for a special operation which released muscle tension caused by damage to his brain during birth.

Without specialist support, little Reece will never be able to live independently or have a normal life.

His mum Laura Walker has said she needs help to pay for the physiotherapy and strength training he needs to make his first steps.

Former paediatric nurse Laura said: “Reece's hard work and determination inspires me every day and the thought of not being able to give him the professional support he needs to eventually walk and run around with his friends breaks my heart.”

The family have launched the ‘Best Foot Forward’ fundraising appeal on Facebook and Twitter (@_bestfoot4ward) with the support of national charity, Caudwell Children, to raise the money needed for two years of professional physiotherapy and strength training, which costs up to £700 per month.

To support Reece, donate at at www.justgiving.com/reecebestfootforward or text BEST87 £(amount) to 70070 or visit: www.facebook.com/reecebestfootforward To discuss other ways of supporting the appeal email ben.sutcliffe@caudwellchildren.com or call 01782 600114.

Ben Sutcliffe from Caudwell Children added: “Reece’s future is in our hands, if we can raise the money for regular therapy then there is no reason why he can’t go on to be fully independent and pain free. We want to do anything we can so Reece can reach his full potential and ask anyone that can support his journey to get in touch.”