A CHANCE to help a little girl diagnosed with a serious joint condition enjoy playtime like her friends has spurred on a fundraising weekend.

There will be three days of fun and entertainment in aid of Elsie Gordon, aged two and a half, and a standing wheelchair which will allow her to enjoy the outdoors.

The money raised during AMC Fest at the Ambassador Snooker Club, Avon Street, on Friday to Sunday will help pay for adaptations to her house and garden to help her get about easier.

Elsie, who was diagnosed in the womb, was called a "miracle baby" when she was born having been given only a one per cent chance of survival.

But she continues to thrive and will be going to pre-school in September where it is hoped her standing wheelchair will allow her to mix more easily with her peers.

Her father Peter said: "It will mean she can stand just like all the other kids.

"She will be the same height as all the other children and will be able to go around the tables at preschool.

"It's similar to a Segway but it will be manual to help build strength in her arms.

"At the moment she is in a scooter type thing which is okay in nursery.

"It's fine but, because it has a wheel in the centre, as soon as the ground is uneven it's no good.

"Elsie wants to go and explore but instead she has to be strapped into a pushchair all the time.

"The wheelchair will mean she can go and explore."

Donna Adkins, one of the assistant managers at The Ambassadors, said the family lived nearby and were regulars.

"We just wanted to do anything we could to help.

"Elsie is an adorable girl, we love her and we just want to make her life easier.

"She's only two and she shouldn't have to struggle to go outside and play.

"I have children and the thought they couldn't go out to play with their friends would break my heart."

The fun will begin at 7pm on Friday and include a whole host of events throughout the three days including a karaoke with prizes on the first night, battle of the DJs on Sunday, live bands on Saturday and Sunday, and an 80s and 90s night on Saturday.

There will also be a bouncy castle, Dutch auction and open the box on Sunday daytime and more throughout the mini-festival.

Businesses who wish to donate prizes can do so by calling 01386 40827 or log on to facebook.com/pages/The-Ambassador-Club.