A MUM from Tibberton, near Worcester, is calling on residents to lace-up their running shoes for a 24-hour charity relay inspired by her son.

Rebecca Hughes, whose three-year-old son Oscar suffers with a rare metabolic condition, is organising the event in aid of Birmingham Children's Hospital's Star Appeal.

The appeal needs to raise £3.65 million to create the UK's first centre for children with rare diseases.

Mrs Hughes, 30, explained that Oscar - whose condition is now "under control" - was so unwell he spent up to four weeks at a time at Birmingham Children's Hospital.

She said: "He [Oscar] has got a rare disease, they don't even know what it is. They know it is a metabolic disease.

"He has a problem with his blood sugar so he has to eat and drink within three to four hours otherwise his blood sugar drops to nothing.

"He is having his genes sequenced to see if they can figure out anything from it.

"It is a worry but we know how to deal with it now."

The mum-of-three says she now wants to "give something back" to the hospital which cares for her son.

"I just want to give something back because they have done so much for the kids - it is an amazing place," she said.

The charity relay will take place at Droitwich Spa High School on Saturday, September 3, alongside a family fun day which will run from 12pm to 6pm.

The family fun day will include pony rides, live music, fire engines, stalls, raffle and much more.

Anyone who wants to take part in the relay must form a team of eight and must register to take part by Saturday, August 20.

For more information contact Mrs Hughes on 07950 779258.

To find out about the Star Appeal visit bch.org.uk/?q=starappeal