An eye-watering fundraiser raised hundreds to help an eight-year-old with a rare condition find her voice.

The event, at Dr Lea’s Body Mods, at The Abattoir shop on Roper Street, Whitehaven, saw £10 from every piercing go towards a £12,000 Eye-Gaze machine for Lily Tyson.

More than £520 was raised on the day and Lily’s 29-year-old mother, Kirsty Tyson, said the support for the cause has been “overwhelming”. At just 18 months old, Lily was diagnosed with Rett syndrome – a rare genetic condition which causes physical and mental disabilities.

Kirsty says the biggest and most frustrating aspect of the condition for Lily is her not being able to communicate verbally.

But, an Eye-Gaze machine, which Lily uses at school , could see the youngster finally be able to communicate with her friends and family. The fund has now gathered more than £4,500 in two months.

Kirsty said:“Me and Lily are very grateful for all of the events taking place to raise money for an Eye-Gaze. An amazing amount was raised by The Abattoir on Saturday at the piercing day. We are overwhelmed by all the support from the community and we thank you in advance for the continued support to raise the £12,000 needed.”

Friends, family and strangers have donated and organised events for the fund. A special fundraising day at Darling Manor is coming up on June 3, featuring princess crafts and story time along with a raffle. Tickets are £5 per child and available at Darling Manor, Queen Street, Whitehaven.

To make a donation, visit www.gofundme.com/Lilysvoice.