THE family of Leah Perry, the disabled Stourport girl who needs £12,000 for life-changing equipment that will give her a voice for the first time, are hoping for a roaring boost to their fundraising.

They are entering a crew into the Bewdley Dragon Boat Festival, which will take place on Saturday, August 23 at 10am at Bewdley Rowing Club, and are urging members of the public to sponsor their water sports adventure.

Eighteen people have already signed up to paddle for Leah in the competition and her parents hope the event will boost their current fundraising total from £5,000 to £7,000.

Michelle Perry, Leah’s mother, said: “I am sure we will have a fun day together and I think it will bring our family and friends closer together by collectively doing something to help Leah.”

It is not too late to register as a team or individual for the festival, which has been organised by the Rotary Club of Bewdley, and everybody who wants to race will be accommodated.

Entry costs £29 per person and can be completed by contacting the rotary club on 08451 990160 or enquiries@bewdleydragonboats.org.uk To support the crew fundraising for Leah visit facebook.com/lifeforleah or contact Michelle Perry on 01299 824141.