A CHARITY set up in memory of an Ipswich youngster who died from cancer is today growing in strength.Shona's Smile Foundation was launched earlier this year to grant the wishes of youngsters battling illnesses.

A CHARITY set up in memory of an Ipswich youngster who died from cancer is today growing in strength.

Shona's Smile Foundation was launched earlier this year to grant the wishes of youngsters battling illnesses.

It was inspired by Shona Gill, ten, of Laurelhayes, Ipswich, who died in December after a long fight with cancer.

The charity has already supported Ipswich youngsters Ryan Balls and Jay Magill by providing financial support for them to go on holiday.

It is now concentrating on building up further funds to help other children.

Tracy Gill, Shona's mum, said: “We have given out as much as we have raised so far.

“We have pledged £1,000 to the hospice for sensory lights and we have spent money on setting things up.

“Even with everything that has come out there is still about £50,000 in there.”

Some of the cash in the fund has been used to fulfil some of Shona's dying wishes.

A play stage and train have been set up at Halifax Primary School, the school Shona attended, and a donation has been made to Dreamflight, a charity which took her on holiday.

Mrs Gill added: “We have to concentrate on building up funds now.

“We decided, as a charity, we weren't going to go public with advertising for a lot of people to start with.

“It has been word of mouth so far with Ryan and Jay.

“We might put leaflets into the hospital but we need to afford to get them done first.”

A fun day at Halifax School in the summer raised nearly £2,000 for the charity and another fundraising event is now to be held at the school.

A tabletop and car boot sale will take place on Sunday, November 13 with 25 car pitches and 20 tables available.

There will also be a barbecue and refreshments will be on sale.

Another fundraising initiative will also coincide with Christmas when cards, designed by Shona's schoolmates will go on sale.

A competition was held at Halifax school to design a card and the best have been chosen for a pack.

One of the cards was designed by Shona's best friend Shannon Curtis.

The competition could be expanded to schools across Ipswich next year.

N Anyone interested in having a table or a pitch on November 13 can call Jo Buckles on 07810 036375.

N Are you organising a fundraiser for Shona's Smile? Contact The Evening Star on 01473 324788.