Time running out for Wigan charity's cash challenge

Happy Smiles, which has been founded by Alex Winstanley and Haydn Smith, launched a massive crowd-funding campaign at the start of December in a bid to raise £30,000.

Other news: Rise in diabetes is proving very costly in WiganThe money is intended to be used for an accessible vehicle to take disabled people to schools and businesses to share their experiences.

A launch took place in the town centre, which was attended by Wigan Warriors stars George Williams and Liam Farrell

And while they have already raised an impressive £3,200, Alex and Haydn still need a lot of support from kindhearted Wiganers.

The crowdfunding campaign is an all-or-nothing challenge. Should they not reach their target Happy Smiles unfortunately won’t receive a penny, making it even more important for charitable Wigan residents to get involved.

Happy Smiles started life when Haydn, who has a form of cerebral palsy and who Alex cares for, had to spend a lot of time in hospital due to his condition.

Alex asked people to send grinning pictures of themselves, to help keep Haydn’s spirits up.

Alex then began running an online blog to tell positive personal stories of people with disabilities, focusing on what they can do rather than what they cannot do.

Now Happy Smiles is transforming into a full-blown charity and Alex, from Swinley, says he cannot wait to get out there and start making a difference.

The organisation also wants to have inclusion champions across the borough positively speaking about residents with disabilities.

Since launching the Facebook page in August 2018, Happy Smiles has already reached more than 80,000 people.

Alex and Haydn have also visited schools to teach students about having the right mindset in a diverse society.

You can donate to the fund-raiser here before tomorrow, December 29.