VILLAGERS have come to the aid of an inspirational youngster who suffers from a rare cancerous tumour in her cheek.
Three-year-old Francesca Dale, who lives off Harestone Valley Road in Caterham, has a condition which means she cannot talk or even smile.
A fundraising event called Concert For A Smile raised more than £4,000 at a private house in Chaldon on June 29.
And now the cash have been collected and counted, organisers say the money will enable Francesca to have speech therapy and communication lessons.
Compere and Tandridge district councillor Pat Cannon said: "It never ceases to amaze me how people step up to the plate for a worthy cause.
"Making this lovely little girl and her family's plight less difficult to cope with is something everyone should be proud to be associated with."
Mother Liz, added: "Francesca is such a little fighter.
"With all the poking and prodding she has endured in her young life from endless hospital appointments, she has been to hell and back."
The event featured the singing trio Charisma - comprised of villagers Madeline Castrey, 16, Matilda Castrey, 14, and Emily Burrill, 16.
But it was Francesca who was the centre of attention, helping to collect the money from raffle ticket sales.
To find out more about Francesca and efforts to aid her, visit www.francescadaleappeal.co.uk.
