THE family of six-year-old Keir Platt one of only two sufferers of a rare genetic disease which has robbed him of the ability to walk and talk are one step closer to finding a cure.

Little Keir was diagnosed with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) last June, a condition that affects the nervous system.

Since then, he has lost almost all of his movement and is due to have a tube fitted to help him eat since he is losing the ability to swallow.

It is a condition with no cure and he is unlikely to reach his teenage years.

But his parents, Michelle Tonge and Martin Platt, of Dryburgh Avenue, Astley Bridge, were thrown a lifeline when the charity, the Myelin Project, announced it was funding research into his condition.

Keir is now being tested to see if he is eligible to meet the requirements to take part in a clinical trial to find a cure.

The trials will cost the charity £2 million and the first £485,000 must be raised by the end of this month.

So far, the Platt family have collected more than £6,000 for the contribution from sponsored events, and are hoping a charity walk will collect an extra £2,000.

Holy Infant and St Anthony's Primary School pupil Keir is due to have tests on June 14 to determine if he is eligible to take part in the clinical trials.

Miss Tonge said: "It's absolutely horrendous watching him deteriorate over time and so hard to witness. We're just praying he is eligible for these trials because even it if just stops the disease from getting worse it would be marvellous.

"Obviously it would be fantastic if we could repair some of the damage that's already been done, but we know that will take years."

A sponsored walk will take place on June 11 and people of all ages can take part.

The five-mile stroll will start from Holy Infant Primary and will be a circular five-mile walk back to the school.

To take part in the walk, which has already attracted 50 youngsters, or to sponsor those taking part, email Miss Tonge at michelle.tonge@bolton.gov.uk.