THE local community has taken baby Ellie Libby to their hearts and on Friday – as part of Looe Lions' carnival week – they pulled out all the stops to support a successful fundraising fancy dress three- legged race around the pubs. Parents Julie and Nigel Libby, together with their friend Barbara Reynolds, are well on target to raising the £10,000 needed for the purchase of a paediatric endoscope at Derriford Hospital. Six-month-old Ellie is the inspiration behind all the fundraising as she has had to endure two adult endoscopies due to airway problems. And now, thanks to more than 50 couples taking part in the race around ten different pubs in both East and West Looe and drinking half a pint in each, the fund has swelled by a further £2,300. Race winners Karen Chamberlain and Amy Wheeler received a trophy and a bottle of wine. The race was followed by an auction in The Admiral Boscarn with all items under the hammer donated by local traders, the auctioneers being Billy Martin and Kevin Sargent. Julie said the support from everyone had been absolutely amasing and overwhelming. She said: 'Friends, family and businesses have all donated generously. 'We can't thank people enough for their help in raising money for this vital piece of medical equipment for children.' Adding to Julie's thanks, Nigel said he would like to thank all the pubs who donated beer for the fun runners. 'It was a great evening and I am sure there were a few sore heads next morning,' he said. Pubs taking part were The Jolly Sailor, Portbyhan Hotel, Harbour Moon, The Swan, The Ship, The Angling Club, Bullers Inn, Fishermen's Arms, The Decker, and Admiral Boscarn. Special thanks were accorded Looe Lions as Nigel and Julie say that without their support the event would not have taken place. Fundraising will finish on August Bank Holiday Monday at the Morval Rally.