A YOUNGSTER has raised hundreds of pounds for a baby care unit.

Mary Land-Wilkins, who attends Four Lanes Junior School, held a charity sale at The Chineham Arms to fundraise for Basingstoke hospital’s Neonatal Unit.

With the sun shining and patrons in good spirits, the eightyear-old raised £334 selling toys and sweets to everyone who visited her stand.

Along with the proceeds made of a charity quiz at the pub later in the evening, Mary has raised nearly £500, with donations still coming in.

“She accumulated a huge amount of unwanted toys to sell, all in fabulous condition, and used her own money to buy sweets to sell,” mum Georgina Land-Wilkins said.

“I am constantly amazed at the amount of energy and drive she has.”

She added: “A governor of Basingstoke Hospital came along to say thankyou to Mary personally and we were given 24 delicious cupcakes from BakerLou Basingstoke, who had heard about Mary through The Gazette’s article and wanted to help.

“Lots of Mary’s friends also gave her a hand on the stall.”

It’s not the first time the Four Lanes Junior School pupil has set up a fundraiser.

At age six she sold her unwanted toys to friends and neighbours outside her house, raising about £20 for the hospital.

Now Mary has arranged an appointment to give the money to the hospital.

Mrs Land-Wilkins said: “Mary is very excited about being able hand over the donations and is looking forward to meeting all the wonderful people who work with the very ill babies in the hospital.”

Mary said: “I want to help people who aren’t as lucky as I am. I want to help the poorly babies and give them a better chance. I like helping people and I love meeting people.”