Clanfield girl gives up birthday presents for teacher's fundraising efforts

The caring six-year-old, who turns seven at the end of this month, had an early birthday party with her friend Phoebe at Flipout, North Harbour.

But instead of asking for presents – she asked her friends and family to make donations to her dance teacher’s fundraising.

Her tutor at the Lucy Kate Star Academy of Dancing in Southsea, Chloe Peacock, is raising cash for a charity very close to her – The Brain Tumour Charity.

Chloe was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2015 and was rushed to St George’s Hospital in Tooting to await the diagnosis.

Thankfully, the tumour was benign and she was told after its removal that she should make a full recovery.

She underwent invasive surgery and embarked on a long process of recovery.

But during that time she took on a the Reading half-marathon in April and started fundraising. Inspired by her dance teacher’s story, Jessica wanted to donate her birthday money, which totalled more than £70.

Jessica, who is in Year 2 at Hambledon Primary, said: ‘I wanted to do it because I have too many toys and clothes.

‘My dance teacher was happy when my mum told her.’

Jessica’s grandmother Melody Jones said she was very proud.

She said: ‘She had a fabulous time using the trampolines, but also thought of others, too.’

Jessica, who lives in Clanfield, adores dancing – ballet, street, modern and tap – as well as acrobatics with her teachers and is looking forward to appearing on stage at their summer show.

She said: ‘I have been dancing since I was three and I really enjoy it.’

To make a donation to the fund, which has raised more than £4,300, go to justgiving.com/chloe-peacock2