Max Walsh's one wish has always been for a new pair of legs - and now his wish has been granted.

The seven-year-old inspired a fundraising campaign, backed by the Medway Messenger, to pay for an operation to save his ability to walk.

Max has cerebral palsy and his condition has deteriorated over the last two years.

When his parents were told he would need a wheelchair by the time he was 13, they were determined to raise the money for him to undergo ground-breaking treatment in America.

Family, friends and even strangers rallied around to collect the cash, but due to changes within the NHS, Max will now be able to have the operation in the UK.

The Twydall Junior School pupil is set to have the surgery in Bristol next Sunday.

Max's mum Nicole said: "Most Christmases Max has asked for a new pair of legs so he can do what other kids do. If he has this operation he'll be able to walk quite normally.

"The operation doesn't frighten me at all because I am looking at the positive benefits."

Max was born premature and his twin brother Owen died at 10-weeks-old.

Doctors have already tried other methods to help improve Max's mobility, including botox, but nothing has worked.

The operation, called selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR), should enable Max's legs to work normally.

Surgeons test the nerve roots which connect his leg muscles to the spinal cord, and sever any that are abnormal, leaving only the functioning nerve roots intact.

Max's dad Shaun described the operation as life-changing. The £26,750 already raised will be used to help teach Max to walk.

Mr Walsh, of Tobruk Way, Walderslade, said: "The money will be spent on physio which will be three times a week for six months, accommodation in Bristol for two weeks and a treadmill for Max to use. Any money left will be donated to other charities that will benefit children."

The fundraising campaign included a golf day, football tournament, sponsored walk and quiz night.

It was supported by people across Medway, including Gills' boss Andy Hessenthaler and coach Nicky Southall, Chatham Town FC and the Invicta Dynamos ice hockey team.