A DISABLED girl was treated to a panto show after staff went "above and beyond."

Kennedy Mercer from Grays has SMA Type 1 – a genetic condition that causes muscle weakness and can leave children with respiratory difficulties.

She and her family were welcomed to Thameside Theatre in Grays for this year's show Cinderella.

Dad Paul said the efforts made by the staff mean so much the family.

He said: "My daughters enjoyed the fabulous show. Thameside Theatre went above and beyond to make it so special and accessible. Thank you so much to all the wonderful people involved and the cast. Wonderful show!"

Theatre bosses say it was their pleasure to host the family and accommodate the young girl.

The family posed for pictures with the cast of the show at the theatre in the borough.

Without treatment, babies with SMA Type 1 rarely live beyond their second birthday.

Kennedy has been receiving a drug called Spinraza through a global compassionate scheme put in place by the manufacturer, Biogen, for infants with the most severe form of the condition.

Both the family and the theatre posted on social media about the picture and special visit with the bosses sharing the kind words from the pleased father.

The post has seen a great response in the community with more than 680 likes, 20 shares and 14 comments. Residents commented about the heartwarming news.

One said: "So pleased they enjoyed themselves my children always enjoy Thameside panto really missed it when it wasn't on last year, what a lovely picture, memory of a super day."

Another praised the cast and crew saying: "Well done Thameside. What a wonderful and memorable thing you have done for this family, Well done to all the cast and crew."

Kennedy and her twin brother, Karter, were diagnosed with SMA Type 1 as babies. Karter was one month old when he was diagnosed, while Kennedy was four months old.

The Mercers were told that Kennedy was unlikely to live beyond the age of eight months old, and the family became determined to give her the best quality of life possible.