Family to fundraise in Helston this Sunday for hospital that carried out major head surgery on son

It was in May 2003 that Seth Murrells was admitted to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London for an operation that saw surgeons remove the front part of his skull, separate it and then screw it back into place.

He was born with no 'soft spot' on the top of his head, meaning as his brain grew both his skull and features were pushed out of shape. As a result, his eyes and ears also had to be realigned.

He spent three days in intensive care and a further week on a recovery reward, with the family making regular return trips for the following six years and the hospital providing aftercare by phone or email even after that.

Now Seth is a healthy, happy 14-year-old, who was named top goal scorer for Wendron United FC's Under 14s squad this season.

His mum Helen said the family had been intending to do something to say thank you to Great Ormond Street for a while and they feel now the time is right.

Helen told the Helston Packet: "It's like we almost needed time to heel and move on. Now it just feels right to perhaps pay back. We owe them a lot."

She added that they would be "forever grateful" to the hospital for what they did for Seth.

Helen has organised a garden party for this Sunday at their home Penhellis Barn in Church Lane, Helston when anyone can drop in between 11am and 4pm for a drink and a slice of cake. Pimms will be served and there will be garden games for children - and adults - to enjoy.

During the same day Seth's dad, Helen's ex husband Ian Murrells, will be taking part in a cycle ride also in aid of the hospital, with fellow members of his cycle club Falmouth Wheelers, and they will be stopping off at the garden party.

Helen said Great Ormond Street Hospital were experts in the kind of surgery Seth had, with children come from all over the world to be treated.

"We haven't looked back; it was very successful," she added. "He is now a wonderfully fit and healthy young man."