A local father, whose teenage daughter died following a seizure, has stepped in to ensure that a Ross school girl can continue to attend the school she loves.

Leia Daunter suffers from cerebral palsy, microcephaly, epilepsy and spastic diplegia and was due to transfer from Hereford’s Barrs Court School to their sixth form college at the Hub in September, but her guardian, Paulette Evans-Baldwin, was angry that transport funding ends as Leia has reached the age of 16.

Paulette said Leia’s transport costs, which will be more than £870 a year, had been covered by the council up until now and she felt it was completely wrong as Leia has no choose about which school she attends due to her additional needs.

She spoke to the press because she wanted people to know how unfair the situation is but she added that she is very grateful that the Lydia Cole foundation has stepped up to pay the costs this year.

She said it means Leia can continue her education at the school she loves without additional financial worries.

Simeon Cole, who organises a family fun day near to the date of his daughter Lydia’s birthday, along with other family members, uses the money they raise to help other youngsters with educational costs. He told the Gazette he was delighted to be able to help Leia and he also offered her, and her guardians and friends, tickets to the Fun Day which is taking place on Saturday, July 27th at Walford.

He said he hopes it will be another successful day, along with the auction during the evening, as everything they raise for the Lydia Cole Foundation wlll help other youngsters like Leia.