A WOMAN has been inspired to fund-raise by a young boy who, as a baby, survived both meningitis and septicaemia which almost crippled him.

Cole Forse, of Drakes Broughton, near Pershore, was just 18 months old when in 2006 he was rushed to hospital with flu-like symptoms and spent 48 hours fighting for his life as he was ravaged by the diseases. Thanks to the team at Worcestershire Royal Hospital Cole, who is now aged six, survived but was left with complete deafness and epilepsy.

He also has to wear a back brace to correct the curvature of his spine and has had cochlear implants fitted.

Cole’s determination to overcome his obstacles and get on with his life has inspired family friend Trudy Burge to begin fund-raising in aid of the Meningitis Trust. She said: “Despite all that Cole has been through he is now a happy little boy in mainstream school.

“Not bad for an 18-month-old who had to be tube fed for over six months and had to relearn to swallow, balance, walk and talk.”

Trudy’s fund-raising will take the form of a Ladies Vintage Tea at St Andrew’s Hall, Pershore, on Saturday, August 6, from 2pm to 4pm.

The cost is £3 per person, sandwiches and cakes. There will also be a raffle, a vintage clothing stall and crafts.

Ms Burge said: “I have spent the last three months collecting old china, tablecloths, cake stands and sugar tongs. My sewing machine has also been flat out making bunting, but it’s for such a good cause.

“Cole really is a little miracle and no matter what he’s endured he still has the same cheeky outlook he’s always had. The Meningitis Trust has been so supportive.”

To buy tickets, call 01386 553189 or e-mail trudy.burge @googlemail.com.