More than 1,000 people flock to event for tragic Cartmel family

Kind-hearted locals have raised more than £5,000 so far for a Cartmel family whose children have a rare and incurable disorder.

Ian and Nicola Elson unwittingly passed on a genetic defect known as MLD (Metachromatic Leukodystrophy) to their children Joe, four, and Connie, six.

The community has rallied round the family, coming in droves to an event at Allithwaite Community Centre on Saturday to raise funds for Connie and Joe's treatment, and awareness of MLD.

Rachel Pocklington, 40, a self-employed cleaner from Flookburgh, and Sian Hunter, 41, a digital marketer from Cark, had spent five months organising ‘Joe and Connie Calling’.

“The atmosphere was one of happiness and joy,” said Sian.

“We had people of all ages enjoying themselves and it was lovely to see so many disabled people being able to join in the fun with their families.

“The relaxed atmosphere meant that everyone could talk about MLD without any awkwardness.

“The disease is so rare that it is easy to feel as if you are the only person in the whole wide world encountering it.”

The event was opened by Bob Stott, chair of the MLD Foundation in the UK, who had travelled up from Lincolnshire especially for the event.

Live entertainment included a ‘poignant’ contribution from Connie’s former dance school the Elite School of Dance.

Alongside the bouncy castles, bubble football, face painting and donkey rides, there were performances from musical comedy duo Hairy Buskers, singer Kev Kendal and alt-folk soloist Chuck Fish.

Joe and Connie’s mum Nicola said the family had had an ‘absolutely fantastic’ day.

“When I walked in and saw the amount of raffle prizes the local community had donated it was just amazing,” she said.

“We’ve just been blown away by the support of the local community who have been so kind, generous and lovely.”

Rachel and Sian said their next step would be to start organising link ups between families in the north of England that are affected by MLD.