BIG-hearted nine-year-old Elise Higham is seeking support to help her raise £1,000 for poverty-stricken children.

Elise, from Mobberley, attends Bexton Primary School, and was inspired to organise a charity fundraiser after watching the Oscar-nominated film Lion.

In the film five-year-old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family, and he must learn to survive alone in Kolkata.

Elise said: “I watched the film last week. It’s a true story about a young Indian boy called Saroo who gets separated from his family.

He gets into a lot of trouble and goes on an incredible journey.

“The film is very moving and made me realise how lucky I am to be living in the UK.

“It also made me feel very sad about how lots of children in the world have very difficult lives, living on the streets, without food, love or their families.”

After looking up details about the film Elise discovered it was a charity partner of Sandbach-based Railway Children, which helps children in India, East Africa and the UK.

She added: “I have decided to hold a charity fundraiser, and my mum and dad are helping me.

“I hope to raise money by selling tickets for a family fun day in Mobberley.

“I am planning a treasure hunt, some Indian food and a children’s disco, between 3pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, May 18 in the Rajar Building on Town Lane in Mobberley.

“I hope to raise £1,000 for the Railway Children charity, and my mum and dad are also going to help me do a campaign for my friends, family and in local schools and businesses to get more people interested in the film.

“I hope this will make lots of people in our community do more to help poor children like Saroo.”

Elise is seeking a donation of food, possibly curry and naan bread, for about 30 people for 5pm at the fundraiser, with plates and possibly someone to help serve.

To buy tickets visit elise_mobberley_fundraiser.eventbrite.co.uk, and to support the event or for more information email projectlionheart@realworth.org

Tickets are £25 for up to five people, the fundraiser is being supported by the Bulls Head and Church Inn in Mobberley, and raffle prizes would be very welcome.