BUSINESSES, runners and charity groups have been helped to raise money for a little girl with Cystic Fibrosis.

Kind-hearted people from across the area have been touched by the story of brave Weymouth toddler Scarlett Russ.

She was diagnosed a few months ago with the condition that affects the internal organs, especially the lungs and digestive system, clogging them with thick, sticky mucus and making it hard to digest food and breathe.

With the help of the community, her parents, Lisa and Colin, were able to raise enough money to buy her a special vest that will help her to breathe. Generous Echo readers donated to collection pots across the area, raising more than £500 extra for Scarlett’s appeal, while staff at Matalan Weymouth presented the family with a cheque for £290.25 from collection buckets from their tills.

One of the managers at Matalan, Glenda Plant, said the staff had just wanted to help out Scarlett and her family.

She said: “We are delighted to help the family out. Although Matalan does support the NSPCC and raise money through the year we can support local good causes too.”

A Dorchester runner had his donation to Scarlett’s appeal boosted by the Lion’s Club.

Gregory Porter, of Herringston Road in Dorchester, chose to raise sponsorship for the Echo-backed campaign when he took part in the fun run organised by the Dorchester and District Lions Club.

He raised £25 and his name was then entered into a further draw for his chosen charity to get even more funds. Chairman of fundraising Mervyn Travers said: “We organised a draw as an incentive to those who took part to return their sponsorship money promptly. As a result of that draw, Gregory Porter won first prize for an additional £100 to be awarded.”

Lisa Russ said the family were very grateful for everyone’s support and kindness.

She said: “We are completely overwhelmed with the amount of support that everyone has shown towards Scarlett not just with donations but also with people asking how Scarlett is doing.

“We feel proud to live in such a lovely community and proud that Scarlett will grow up surrounded by lovely, amazing people that have helped her.”