A PINVIN girl who could not take part in a sponsored horse ride is raising money instead by raffling off her teddy.

Anna Daffin, aged 15, suffers from Myalgic Encephalopathy (ME), and is selling her teddy's birthdates at £1 each to raise money for research into the illness as part of a campaign called 2001 Odyssey for ME, which is helping to raise awareness of the condition.

Anna lives in The Green and was diagnosed five years ago with ME, the effects of which are similar to those of a stroke. It is a disease of the brain and central nervous system which causes debilitating fatigue.

She wanted to take part in a leg of a 500-mile horse ride from Lulworth Cove in Dorset to Edinburgh Castle in September to raise funds, but was unable to because of her illness.

So to raise some money, she decided to raffle off the teddy, which she has named Odysseus, and he will go to the winner of the raffle, which will be announced as soon as all the dates have been bought up.

She has collected £150 so far and would like to hear from more people who would be prepared to offer donations or just pay £1 to purchase a date.

Her mother Meg, who also suffers from ME, said: "We're very proud of her involvement with this charity and we are hoping to raise as much money as possible.

"We hope to raise awareness of this debilitating condition and would like to thank people from all over the Vale who have supported us wonderfully."

For a date to be allocated, send a cheque made payable to 2001 Odyssey for ME, to Meg Daffin, Owls Reach, The Green, Pinvin, including a name and telephone number so the date can be allocated. For more information contact Meg on 01386 554351.

Further information on ME is available from the Hereford and Worcester ME support group on 01386 421550 or go to www.2001odyssey.org.uk.