Two youngsters sacrificed their birthday presents to raise money for a hospital's kidney unit.

Instead of asking people to bring gifts to their joint sixth birthday bash, Harry Walker and Lauren Miller asked for donations instead.

The pair managed to raise £400 for the renal unit at Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, where Harry's dad, Allan, is being treated.

Mr Walker, 55, needs regular dialysis after his kidneys failed following a rare viral infection.

His wife Karen, 41, said the idea of swapping birthday presents for money was all Harry's.

She said: "He wrote and sent a letter explaining to parents why they were asking for money.

"Everyone was very kind. Most brought money and a small present as well because they knew the children were making a big sacrifice."

The children got an extra surprise from The Argus mascot, Charlie Argus, when they came to hand over the cheque to the renal unit's consultant Steve Holt.

Charlie gave the children two extra presents to make up for the ones they did not get.

Mrs Walker, from Hastings, said: "They were surprised and really pleased when they got the presents."