ONE of the best parts about being a local newspaper is the chance to share the incredibly positive things happening in our community.

And community spirit is stronger than ever here in Herefordshire, a county where people are quick to rally together to help those in need.

One such case is that of young Bill Symonds who, at just 19-months-old, went through a seven-hour operation at Birmingham Children’s Hospital after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

His parents, Kate and Lee Symonds – another member of the Beefy Boys – were overwhelmed with the support they received from members of the community who so generously donated at a range of fundraising events.

Most recently, the Beefy Boys ran a promotion in April where, for every Macaroni Boy they sold, £1 was donated to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

In just one month, a total of 792 macaroni boys were sold and the business boosted the total to £1,000.

Lee said: “When we were in hospital with Bill, people were donating to pay our bills and stuff and when we got home they’d decorated our kitchen and done all this nice stuff while we were away.

“My experience was really good and positive. We see so much negative press but when people do come together it’s like ‘wow’.”

Bill, who is now nearly five, has recovered very well and is now settled at St James Primary School in Hereford. He has an MRI scan every six months, though medics are confident the tumour will not return.

While this paper champions the work of fundraisers in the area, we’ve also been involved in a number of our own campaigns, raising thousands of pounds for local charities thanks to your support.

Last year, our One in Eight appeal raised £60,000 for breast cancer support centre The Hereford Haven while, this year, we’re raising money for Megan Baker House through our Project Chrysalis appeal.