Two seven-year-old girls whose lives have been dramatically affected by coeliac disease and food intolerances are trying to raise awareness about the lifelong condition.

Freya Padfield, of Canterbury Road, and Milly Jessup, of Lynsted, both suffered from stomach pains and constant fatigue before they were diagnosed.

Sheldwich Primary School pupil Freya was diagnosed with coeliac disease last July and in January this year, Lynsted Primary School pupil Milly was told she has intolerance to gluten and dairy products.

Since their diagnosis, their lives have changed and the diet of their family has been overhauled with gluten-free food.

As part of Coeliac Awareness Week, Freya will be making and selling gluten-free cookies on Saturday and Milly will be taking part in a gluten-free cookery workshop, alongside coeliac and Creek Creative chef Lorraine King.

All the money raised will go to the Coeliac UK charity.

Mum Sam Padfield said: “Freya’s whole life has changed. She has had to adopt an entire new lifestyle.

“As a family, we now all eat gluten-free food. She has such a high reading that she can’t come across anything with gluten. We couldn’t even put normal bread into the same toaster.

“Coeliac UK has been great right from the start. When you are first diagnosed, they provide you with a volume of information and support.

“There is information on which restaurants will cater for coeliacs, which foods you can and cannot eat and information on research which is working towards a cure.”

Milly’s dad Chris Jessup said: “We have also had a complete lifestyle change. It’s surprising what foods you can and can’t have. Supermarkets are starting to stock certain gluten and dairy free foods but it is still difficult.

“Milly came along to one of Lorraine’s cookery demonstrations and she just loved it. She started making scones and that’s what she will be cooking on Saturday.

“It’s great that she can come here and feel comfortable and confident knowing that Lorraine is aware and understanding of the intolerances.”

The cookie sale and cooking demonstration takes place at Creek Creative gallery and cafe in Abbey Street on Saturday from 10am until 2pm.

Artists at the gallery have collaborated, with illustrator Priscilla Lamont creating the posters and artist Kate Garcia putting together the leaflets.

There will also be a raffle, with silversmith Charlotte Baker and artists Ron Chadwick and Hugh Ribbans donating some of their work for prizes.