Hayley's target reached

Less than two weeks ago it seemed the event might never happen but now 18,500 is there to make sure Hayley and her friends have a week they'll always remember.

Mum Kerry, of Meadow Crescent, was on the point of despair when it looked as though she and husband Mark would have to take out a private bank loan to pay for flights and hotel accommodation for 18 youngsters and their families.

But an appearance on GMTV and the airing of the latest Channel 5 documentary about Hayley's life has meant donations have come rolling in and the reunion plans are falling into place.

Karry told the Observer: "We have reached our target. We have managed to do it '“ after all that panic we had for weeks. If only the documentary had come out earlier."

More than 2,000 has been given online via Hayley's Page website, and an Australian TV company has made a donation on the condition of being able to film her for a day, while local events are still being held such as cake sales, fun run, and events in local schools.

Kerry said: "The pressure is now off a little bit '“ but this is where the hard work starts, booking all the flights and tomorrow I am meeting with the hotel to make final arrangements."

The reunion will be from August 6-12 and will take place in Ashford. Kerry intends to organise entertainment and activities during the week for children to enjoy, such as working with a theatre group every day towards putting on a show, and a street-dance themed farewell party.

"Now that the 18,000 is reached, anything on top of that will be used to make it really special for the kids.

"Hayley is really excited."