PLAYING it safe doesn't come easily to four-year-old Ethan Jones from Kingstone.

Like any other child, Ethan, who has been diagnosed with cerebral diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy that affects his walking, wants to be on the go all the time.

But even with the special helmet he wears, his condition means that he often falls over and injures himself.

The only time Ethan doesn't have to wear his helmet is at mealtimes and in the soft play area at Blackmarston School, Hereford.

"Ethan's a very happy boy, but it's very upsetting for him and for me," says his mum, Samantha.

"Touch wood, we haven't yet had to go to casualty, but as he gets heavier, he's bound to hurt himself more seriously.

"We'd love to create a soft play area for Ethan at home. He is constantly frustrated at not being able to join in with his sisters, Poppy, who's two, and Imogen, seven.

"A soft play room would change that - and give him the chance to safely burn off some energy!

"We've already plastered the garage, and I've got 900 plastic balls in the attic, waiting for a ball pit, but we simply can't afford to kit it out all at once."

Samantha wants to find a local charity to help fund a safe play space for Ethan. If anyone can help, contact her on 01981 251727.