THE Craig Evans Appeal is to be split into two sections for the foreseeable future to help organisers achieve their fundraising targets.

The original appeal started in March 2006 to raise enough money to buy Craig, a 26-year-old with spinal muscular atrophy, an electronic wheelchair.

Just weeks before he received his wheelchair Craig died but the appeal continued, headed by Jean Leathwaite, so that other disabled people could benefit, which had been Craig's wish.

The appeal now helps the community by providing much-needed help with things such as wheelchairs, disabled scooters, rollators and bath hoists for disabled people of all ages.

This appeal will continue, headed by Jean, but a second - the Craig Evans Playground Fund - will split from the main appeal for the time being, and will be run by Craig's mum, Christine Dyson.

This project, being run in collaboration with Redditch Council, aims to set up a special play area at Arrow Valley Country Park for disabled children so they can have as much fun playing as able-bodied children.

Specialised equipment such as cradle swings will be needed to make the project a reality. It is hoped the play area will be finished before next year's school summer holidays and about £5-6,000 is needed.

To donate to the playground fund, contact Mrs Dyson at 50 Upperfield Close, Church Hill, Redditch B98 9LE, call 465002 or donate directly at Natwest, sort code 54-30-25 a/c 38612496.

Cheques should be made payable to The Craig Evans PGF.

To donate to the original Craig Evans Appeal, contact Jean Leathwaite at 17 Corner Lane, Webheath, Redditch B97 5WP, call 410782, email Appeal6@sky.com or donate at HSBC Bank, sort code 40-38-07 a/c 51793330.

Cheques should be made payable to The Craig Evans Appeal.