Luton Bingo Players Raise Charity Cash

Bingo players donated unwanted shoes to raise money for Whizz-Kidz.

Disabled schoolgirl Helen Taylor has received a new wheelchair thanks to a fundraising initiative at a bingo club in Luton.

Members of the Mecca Bingo venue took part in the Mecca Wheel Difference campaign, which aims to generate cash for the children's mobility charity Whizz-Kidz, Bedford Today reports.

As part of the scheme, players were encouraged to donate old and unwanted shoes in an initiative dubbed Heels For Wheels.

According to the local news provider, the campaign raised over £2,300, which helped to provide a new wheelchair for 12-year-old Helen.

The youngster suffers from restricted growth and osteoarthritis, making it painful to walk even the shortest distances.

Mecca Bingo and Whizz-Kidz launched the Heels for Wheels scheme in September, supported by celebrity backers such as ITV presenter Trinny Woodall, EastEnders actor Cliff Parisi and sports minister Gerry Sutcliffe.

According to Whizz-Kidz, the bingo operator has raised almost £500,000 for the charity since January 2008.