Lively Eve McGuire has stirred readers into raising thousands of pounds for her to have a life-changing operation.

Eve, pictured, who was born with a very severe form of Trencher Collins Syndrome, a genetic disorder, breathes through a tube in her throat and has no external ears.

By her ninth birthday last week, the fund in her name had grown to an amazing £72,000, which means that treatment can start in May.

Dr Joe McCarthy, pioneering surgeon at the New York Medical Center, will give Eve £100,000 treatment in several stages, which involves growing new bone and making it possible to breathe properly through her mouth.

Neil Hunt, chairman of the Eve McGuire Trust said: "We have had a great response from Bradford since Eve featured in the T&A.

"We have noticed a large batch of cheques with Bradford bank details on them.

"Several pubs, groups, schools and companies have contacted us.

"Every penny we raise will go towards making life a bit easier for Eve. People in Bradford and West Yorkshire have been wonderful."

The accounts department at Shipley company Filtronic have raised money by not sending each other Christmas cards.

One woman, who preferred not to be named, also of Shipley, was so moved by her story she bought a giant teddy bear to raffle at Asda in Shipley.

Eve herself took part in a fundraising concert at West End Primary School, Horsforth.

To celebrate her ninth birthday, she went with two close friends to see Harry Potter's latest film, followed by a bowling session and meal out.

Eve's mother Belinda said: "When we started fundraising in May, we thought it would take us years - but to make such a big start before Christmas is the best present we could give to Eve.

"Everyone has been amazing. And my employers Acorn Estate Agents in Yeadon will hold my job open during my stay in New York. A huge thank you to everyone who has helped us."

Anyone else who wants to help Eve, should send a cheque to The Eve McGuire Trust, PO Box 178, Rawdon, Leeds, LS19 6WZ or contact Neil Hunt on (07831) 482405.