The family of a three-year-old girl who suffers from a rare illness say they are 'overwhelmed' after raising enough money to purchase a life-changing, specialised wheelchair, which will enable her to sit with her friends at school for the first time.

Sophie Saunders, of Winters Way in Waltham Abbey, is one of just 300 youngsters in the world known to suffer from 'Ullrich Muscular Dystrophy' which causes extreme muscle weakness.

The family of the three-year-old were originally trying to raise £15,000 to buy a wheelchair, which which will greatly improve Sophie’s mobility, by the time she started school.

Sophie's condition has already caused breathing problems at night and despite the average life expectancy for the condition being late teens, she is not expected to live past the age of 12.

Yesterday her parents were able to confirm they have reached the target amount and have ordered the chair, which will arrive in six to eight weeks time.

At the moment, Sophie has to sit at a separate desk at school which is higher than her classmates and teachers have to lift her to wash her hands.

The new wheelchair will enable her to join her friends at smaller tables and lift herself up to get a drink.

Her mother, Natalie Moss, 25, said: "It’s all the little silly things really that people wouldn’t have to think twice about that she'll be able to do.

"I would like to say a massive thank you to all those that have made donations, and helped with events.

"We have now stopped fundraising as we have enough funds to place the order, we are over the moon.

"It is so perfect, without everyones help we couldn't of given our Sophie the best."

The family plan to suprise the youngster with her new chair covered in ribbons somewhere in public in Waltham Abbey so those who helped raise can see her reaction.

Since the fundraising push began in August, the family have undertaken ice bucket challenges, cake sales, fancy dress and the youngster even become a mascot for a day at Harlow football stadium, raising over £500.

Miss Moss added: "We are excited and just overwhelmed from the support we have had.

"We can't wait to see Sophie's reaction."