A LEOMINSTER infant has this week been enjoying cuddles with his mum after months in a halo neck brace following a car crash last October.

Freddie Saunders has been receiving care at Birmingham Children’s Hospital since the head-on collision near Nordan last year.

And the youngster has this month been released from the halo brace – used to hold a child's head and neck in place after a spinal injury so that spinal bones, or vertebrae, can heal.

It means that he has finally been able to receive hugs from his family.

And fundraising efforts are still ongoing in Leominster with a charity football match set to take place at Bridge Street Sports Centre this Saturday, with kick-off at 12pm.

Entry costs £3 for adults but is free for children and all funds raised will help to pay for Freddie’s ongoing care.

Tickets are available at the gate.

Presteigne’s Louise Price has also completed the latest in her "14 in 14 for Freddie" challenge.

Louise took part in the Hereford half marathon last weekend, completing the tough course in 1:59:07.

It is her fourth event of the year, with a marathon set for next Sunday in Edinburgh and nine other events to follow.

Funds raised by Louise will help to establish a sensory playroom for Freddie.

To donate, visit kapipal.com/14forfreddie