An energetic fundraiser is planned by the Dance Dynamique troupe to raise cash to help pay for surgery for a Deal schoolboy.

Sarah Maynard and Kelly Woodward, who run the classes, are supporting Theo Knott’s Mission to Walk campaign with a charity performance evening on Friday, March 31.

The St Mary’s Primary School pupil from College Road has cerebral palsy.

Dance Dynamique’s efforts will go towards the campaign launched by Theo’s parents, Steven Knott and Naomi Morton, to raise £50,000 to pay for private selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR).

The treatment will reduce the tightness in his legs and although it is not a cure, it will improve the five-year-old’s quality of life by helping him walk pain free.

A statement by the two dance teachers said: “We will be showcasing routines from our child, teen and adult classes for everyone to enjoy.

“There will also be a raffle during the interval – so be sure to get your tickets.”

Theo was diagnosed when he was aged three.

The condition affects his legs, arms, balance and vision.

Since the campaign was launched in December, pledges of support have come from across the community.

There have been charity nights, raffles, sponsored hair chops and four people took part in the Boxing Day Dip at Christmas.

In January, an anonymous £1,000 donation boosted the fund and owner of plumbing firm Systematik Ltd, Wesley Smith, has pledged 5% of 2017’s profits to the cause, hopefully totalling £20,000.

If the family can reach their target, the treatment will happen at Great Ormand Street Hospital.

Theo will require intense physiotherapy on a daily basis for a minimum of 12 months and will need to use specialised equipment.

Other therapy to help him reach his full potential will include horse riding, hydrotherapy, swimming and specialised post-SDR physio.

He will also be provided with suitable footwear.

The surgery has been available in America since 1990, and is often referred to as the ‘miracle operation’, but it is not available on the NHS.

Last month, Theo had a separate operation to lengthen the muscles in his calves and feet due to the deformities which have developed in his legs.

The unexpected operation took place at Evelina Children’s Hospital in London and was paid for by the NHS.

Miss Morton said the operation was a success but Theo will have his legs in casts for six weeks. They are hoping his next operation will be the SDR.

To donate to Theo’s Mission to Walk, you can pledge funds at justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/just4children/theosmissiontowalk