FAMILIES turned out to support a fun day to raise cash for a youngster battling a rare condition.

Nicola Watts, 34, of Gifhorn Road, Canvey, arranged the event at the Admiral Jelicoe pub, in High Street, in aid of charity Cystinosis Foundation UK.

Nicola’s son, Harry Beardsell, six, suffers from the rare genetic illness, cystinosis, which causes crystals to form in his eyes.

Cystinosis causes crystals to form in the blood system, which attack the vital organs and gradually shut them down.

Family and friends banded together for the event, which featured stalls, inflatables, face painting, plus live music to entertain adults.

The event raised more than £4,000.

Nicola Watts said: “I honestly would have been happy if we’d raised between £500 and £1,000, I couldn’t believe it when I counted the total up.

“The whole day was absolutely amazing.

“When I looked round and saw hundreds of people there, I just burst into tears. It was such a success we now want to make it an annual event.

“The money is going to help fund vital research. The medicine Harry is on at the moment is absolutely vile and stings his throat.”