A mother-of-three is appealing to members of the public to help her raise thousands of pounds for a specialised electric wheelchair.

Julie Francis, 45, who has epilepsy, was diagnosed with a debilitating neurological disorder after a tumour was found on her spinal cord. The diagnosis six years ago has left her virtually house-bound, but she hopes a new specialised wheelchair will give her her freedom back.

'I have never in my life asked for help,' said Julie.

'It is so hard for me to ask for help but there is no other way to raise the money.'

Full story in this week's Cornish Times.