Since the fund was set up at the end of 2006, more than £10,000 has been raised, all of which will go towards helping under-18s.

We have already pledged £1,000 to Spalding and District Gymnastics Club to help with a new centre for youngsters who are interested in the sport either competitively or as a hobby.

Now £500 has been promised to 16-year-old William Mason, from Weston, who will be using the money to try and gain a place on the International Tennis Federation Tour this year.

Donations have been coming in steadily since the launch of the fund, with the latest £158 raised by staff and pupils at Gosberton Clough and Risegate Primary School.

The fund was launched following the huge success of Megan's Appeal, which raised £2,500 to send Spalding young carer Megan Beardshaw (10) and her wheelchair-bound mum Alison on the trip of a lifetime to Disneyland Paris.

It aims to help anyone under the age of 18 living within our coverage area, including those who need help to buy things like sports equipment or musical instruments.

To make a bid for cash from the fund, or to nominate someone who you think is worthy, write to the Children's Appeal Trustees, c/o Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian, Priory House, The Crescent, Spalding, Lincolnshire, PE11 1AB.

Please continue to support us.

If you would like to organise an event in aid of the Children's Fund, we can help with publicity.

Please contact appeal co-ordinator Rachel Mayfield on 01775 765417.

If you would like to make a donation, cheques can be made payable to Lincolnshire Free Press Children's Fund and all donations should be either care of the Lincolnshire Free Press, Priory House, The Crescent, Spalding, PE11 1AB, or paid directly into Barclays Bank, sort code 20-80-78, account number 60972789.