THE parents of a little boy with cerebral palsy have renewed their urgent appeal for help to raise funds to pay for a life-changing operation for him.

Eight-year-old Oliver Sharman from Hove has been approved for special surgery which could help him walk and play with his friends.

Oliver’s condition causes his muscles to be abnormally tight but he can manage to walk with a special frame.

He can occasionally sometimes move around on tiptoe but the youngster finds this too difficult outside the house so he prefers to use his wheelchair when he is out and about.

He has recently had a growth spurt and medics believe he would benefit from selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR).

The procedure is not currently routinely available on the NHS and Oliver’s parents Yasemin and Lloyd urgently need to raise at least £30,000 to cover the cost of surgery and special equipment to help with the physiotherapy he will need afterwards.

The operation reduces the spasticity in Oliver's lower limbs and will ultimately give him a good chance of learning how to walk.

It will also increase his independence as well as make him generally more comfortable.

His leg movements will become easier and the level of control, dexterity, range and speed will increase over time.

There will be a reduction in spasticity in Oliver’s lower limbs and give him a chance of learning how to walk.

The operation is scheduled for the beginning of February and Oliver’s parents desperately need help to reach their target, which they have been struggling to reach.

Mrs Sharman, 47, said: “The operation has been postponed twice and I don't know if I could handle another delay.

“We need the money for the operation, a bigger size special trike and a treadmill so he can do exercises to strengthen his muscles after the operation.

“Oliver is a lovely, happy boy who is desperate to walk. He has got so much energy but the stiffness in his body doesn't allow him to move freely and gives him pain in many areas and frustrates him very much.

“We are trying to help him but unfortunately we are limited and need help to grant him his wish to walk and play football with his friends.

“Oliver is funny, happy, gorgeous and is loved by all. After all the hard work, dedication and determination Oliver has now been given the chance for his life to be changed forever.

“We need the money for the operation, a bigger size special trike and a treadmill so he can do exercises to strengthen his muscles after the operation.

To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/oliversharman.

More details can also be found at a dedicated website oliversharman.com.