Baby Jake Akehurst is a step closer to walking, thanks to readers of The Argus.

Doctors said 15-month-old Jake may never walk - but his mum Roslyn is determined to do everything she can to encourage his mobility.

Jake was born more than two months premature after Roslyn developed the life-threatening condition pre-eclampsia.

He has cerebral palsy, which means he may never be able to talk, walk or even swallow properly.

Jake, of Old Shoreham Road, Hove, was also diagnosed with haemophilia when he was just over a week old.

The condition means even the slightest bump or cut could kill him.

Roslyn cannot travel anywhere without taking a refrigerated agent to help his blood clot.

And she has to keep a constant watch on her son.

The cerebral palsy causes muscle spasms but when Jake jerks his head he could start off a potentially fatal bleed.

Roslyn, 27, is trying to raise money to take him to the Peto Institute in Budapest, which helps pre-school children with disabilities to walk and talk.

The Institute teaches parents intensive physiotherapy skills to help their child's mobility.

The Argus featured Jake's story in September and appealed to readers for help with Roslyn's fund-raising.

Thanks to cheques and cash donated from across the county, the single mum has been able to buy Jake a physiotherapy ball.

It will help strengthen muscles in the little boy's legs and arms and will enable him to sit without damaging his spine.

Roslyn said: "I would like to say thanks to everyone who wrote me lovely letters and gave donations. It means so much to know people care.

"Jake loves the ball because it helps him exercise but it's also fun. I can lie him on it and he holds himself up on his arms, or I push it across the room and he reaches out to catch it. It should make a real difference.

"There's still a long way to go before I can take Jake to the Peto Institute.

"It's a race against time, because the best results are with children under two.

"Budgens in Boundary Road has a collection box now and I am trying to organise other fund-raising events.

"I love my son so much. I just want to help him live the best life he can."

To donate to Jake's fund, send cheques to Jake Akehurst, 320 Old Shoreham Road, Hove, BN3 7HA or make payments into Jake's bank account: Sort code 30-98-74, account number 10653060.