A brave eight-year-old who has spent many Christmases in hospital has launched a charity to help sick children during the festive period.

William Milne, of Addiscombe, has set up his own charity to grant wishes to help other children who are having a tough time with long term illness and disability.

The St Giles School pupil has complex health issues of his own, having a small bowel transplant in 2008, and lives with other conditions including mild cerebral palsy and Asperger Syndrome.

With the help of his mum, Sarah Milne, 42, he set up the charity Williams Wishes last month on the fourth anniversary of his transplant with the aim of granting small wishes for children such as days out and little presents.

The youngster has spent four Christmases in hospital with the most recent coming last year after he fell ill unexpectedly.

He had to go to Birmingham Children’s Hospital on December 24 and the family were touched by the amount of gifts and support they got whilst they stayed there.

This year, William and his family decided to make the first role of the charity to help those who will be spending this Christmas in the Rupert Bear ward, the children’s wing at Croydon University Hospital.

They will be visiting the ward on Christmas Eve to give out gifts.

Mrs Milne said: "William has only had a few Christmases at home, the rest have been in hospital.

"All but one were part of long admissions and you always get your hopes up that you will get home and then feel so disappointed that you have to stay in.

"This is why we want to bring something special and Christmassy, not just toys, to everyone in the family because it's everyone, not just the sick child, who needs something to make them feel a touch of magic.

She added: "If everyone gave just a few pounds, the cost of a box of Christmas cards, a stocking filler or a Christmas drink, we could grant lots of wishes for local children."

After Christmas, the charity will focus on providing wishes to other sick children.

You can find out more about Williams Wishes, and how to donate or refer a child for a wish on their website williamswishes.com