A WEYMOUTH mum is asking for local support to raise money for a children’s charity.

Louise Stones, of Barnes Wallis Close, began fundraising when she heard the story of the charity Reuben’s Retreat.

The charity was created by the parents of Reuben Graham – who died of a brain tumour when he was just 23 months old.

It raises money for a retreat in the north west of England where bereaved parents and siblings can receive support and counselling.

Louise, who works as a staff nurse at Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester, said: “When I first heard Reuben’s story it really hit close to home.

“My own son was a similar age to Reuben and being a nurse I see a lot of terminally ill children.

“I just can’t imagine what it is like for the parents of those kids and one day I decided that instead of just being upset by it, I wanted to get off my backside and do something to help these families.”

Louise raised more than £700 at the beginning of July by holding a secondhand sale in Dorchester and is now asking for the help of local businesses in Weymouth as she prepares for a charity fun day and craft fair.

Colin Taylor, of Domestic Sprinklers, generously donated £500 to the cause.

He said: “I received an email from Louise asking for donations and her passion really came through in the email and I just felt that she really deserved some local support.”

Louise said: “I am so truly and eternally grateful for this overwhelmingly generous donation, I cannot thank Colin enough.

“If any other local businesses would like to get involved we would be so grateful for any donations for the raffle or towards the cost of running the day.”