Maisie sells bracelets to 'make children smile'

A five-year-old girl has raised more than £300 for children at her local hospital "to make them smile".

Maisie from Oswestry is supporting the nearby Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital at Gobowen in Shropshire, where she has received treatment herself.

She raised the money by making and selling 13 necklaces and 33 bracelets and has been selling her own toys too.

Her mother, Robyn, said she was "extremely proud" and added: "It was all something that she thought of by herself and asked if I could help her, and she's not stopped there."

Maisie attends appointments at the hospital due to hearing difficulties.

Robyn, who has mobility issues herself, said: "We've been in and out quite a lot having her sorted."

Maisie's father, Jon, also receives regular treatment at the hospital for GPA vasculitis.

Robyn said it was "an autoimmune disease which has affected all of us because he's not been able to go out in public and be around people".

Maisie said she wanted to help children in hospital because they need "cheering up" and because some children "don't have much".

Robyn said: "Seeing the amount of effort she has put into making the bracelets and necklaces has been incredible."

The money raised for the hospital will be used to buy toys, games and other items for children receiving care on the hospital's paediatric ward.

Ward manager Suzanne Marsden said: "We are incredibly proud of Maisie and amazed by what she has achieved at such a young age.

"Her determination to help other children is truly inspiring – the toys and activities she purchases will bring comfort, distraction and smiles to many young patients during their stay with us."

Maisie's next fundraising mission will be a 99-mile challenge, which she aims to complete by walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.