A TOY shop has raised more than £2,000 for good causes.

Chris Francis, owner of Chris’ Toy Box, in London Road, Westcliff, has been raising funds to help two-year-old Maci- Louise Muller, from Southend, battle a rare form of intestinal failure.

The money is also going towards trying to help the Balmoral Pre- School, in St Helens Road, Westcliff, stay open and the Little Heroes autism support group, in Summercourt Children’s Centre, also in Westcliff.

Through a series of raffles and charity events, Mr Francis has so far managed to raise £2,179 to split between the good causes. He said: “We’re so pleased to have been able to do our bit in the time we’ve been open, but we’re not finished yet.

“We got involved with Maci-Louise after a bouncy castle company pulled out of providing a service for an event in her name, so we stepped in and made a loss on the day, but still donated to her cause.

“She needs £45,000 in two years so she can go to America and have a transplant so we want to help where we can.

“Balmoral is staying open for the time being, too, so we’re glad to be able to help.”