KIND-HEARTED Oxford United fans have helped a young terminally-ill supporter of another team move one step closer to her dream holiday.

They dug deep for Tess Sullivan, three, who is one of only 50 children in the world to have Alexander disease, a rare genetic degenerative disorder.

The appeal came when U’s fan Dave Cudd read about Tess’ plight ahead of Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Accrington Stanley – the tot’s favourite team.

After rallying fellow supporters, Mr Cudd and his team collected £550 outside the Kassam Stadium before the game.

Last night Mr Cudd, 52, said: “I was checking the Accrington Stanley website when I read about Tess. It’s a heartbreaking story and I knew it was something Oxford fans would want to lend their support to.

“I am delighted with the response. United fans are a generous lot.

“My thanks go to U’s fans Kevin Bourton, Matt Naish and my kids Tommy and Jenny for helping me collect the donations, and Paul Hayday for helping us add the money up after the game.”

Tess, from Huncoat, near Accrington, Lancashire, was diagnosed with the disease last December and is expected to die between the age of five and 10 years old because there is no known cure.

She won’t develop normally and will lose her mobility, eyesight and her ability to chew and swallow.

Tess has already had surgery to remove parts of her skull after suffering from pressure to the brain.

Her family want to make her remaining years as happy as possible and are trying to raise enough money to take her on a Disney cruise.

Mr Cudd, from Amersham, said: “It’s the kind of story that puts everything in perspective. She is so brave and her family have been through so much. We only hope this small gesture can help ensure she gets this amazing holiday.”

Tess’ mum, Helen, 31, contacted the fans to thank them.

She told them: “I had a call from Accrington Stanley to say you were doing the collection and I was absolutely over the moon.

“I can’t believe how generous you’ve been with giving your time and effort to help our family. To say we are touched is an understatement. Thanks to the kind actions of so many we are getting closer and closer to our target to take little Tess on a Disney cruise as soon as possible.

“We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. OUFC will always have a special place in our hearts from now on.”

Donate to Tess’s fund through the Paypal account 73HFRARXZJ3TG in the name of Helen Sullivan and the email address helensullivan@hotmail.co.uk

  • ALEXANDER DISEASE THE condition is a rare genetic disorder affecting the central nervous system.

There are three types of Alexander disease: infantile, juvenile and adult.

The infantile form usually starts at the age of six months or but can occur any time within the first two years.

The juvenile form usually starts showing symptoms when sufferers are between four and 10 years of age.

Adult onset Alexander Disease is the rarest form.