A POLICEWOMAN was so moved by the plight of her friend’s daughter she has embarked on a campaign to raise funds for a deaf children’s charity.

PC Joanne Kerly from Basildon is busy organising a string of fundraising events for the National Deaf Children’s Society.

She is appealing to curry-lovers to join her latest effort – a £15-a-head “all you can eat” Indian meal, at the Tandoori Parlour, in Thund-ersley next month. Joanne was inspired to organise the meal and other events after he friend’s young daughter was diagnosed with hearing difficulties.

The 23-year-old, who is from Basildon, but currently stationed at Loughton, will be keeping an eye on what she eats at the event, on Thursday October 23.

She is also getting in shape to pound the streets of the capital in next April’s Flora London Marathon, aiming to raise £1,500 for the charity.

Joanne was inspired to help when her friend David Marler, 24, found out his two-year-old daughter, Maddie, had a hearing disorder.

She said: “Maddie’s hearing loss was detected through newborn hearing screening for which the National Deaf Children’s Society has campaigned.

“The charity provides families with clear information relating to deafness at all levels.

“I want to raise money for the society to ensure its work can continue.”

Joanne is also planning to organise a black-tie charity event for 150 guests in February, at Langdon Hills Golf and Country Club, in Bulphan.

Tickets are £40 and will include a three-course meal, a Frank Sinatra Tribute act, a raffle and an auction, with prizes including dinner for six at one of Gordon Ramsey’s restaurants.

Helen Lerwill, head of events for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “Every day in the UK three babies are born deaf and 90 per cent are born to hearing parents with little experience of deafness.

“None of our work would be possible without the commitment of people like Joanne.”

To sponsor Joanne, or buy tickets for one of her events, click the link below.