A group of big-hearted weightlifters have given a huge lift to young Derry girl who suffers from a rare disease.

Raw Muscle Gym recently hosted a 400 ton lift in aid of 14 year-old Rachel Thomas, who suffers from Huntingdon’s Disease.

Huntingdon’s Disease is a brain disorder which in turn can lower the life expectancy of those affected by the condition.

However, brave Rachel managed to attend the event, which saw weight-lifters from as far afield as Lifford make the journey to Derry to take part in the fund raiser.

A spokesperson for Raw Muscle said that to date, £3,000 has been raised for Rachel through a number of activities.

“We had a great day at the lift and it really touched everyone’s hearts that Rachel was there on the day with her family to support the event,” the spokesperson said.

“A lot of people have been involved with helping to raise the funds, including Gary and Eddie at Raw Muscle who kindly provided the gym, and Becky Ross, who also works tirelessly on behalf of Rachel and her family's needs.

“A big thanks also goes out to Thomas Shields, who completed a 13 mile obstacle course in Scotland to raise money, and also Liam Stewart, Gareth Stewart, Gareth McGlinchey, Railway Gym Lifford, Seane Fee and Blaine Tierney.

“Without these people the lift would not have been possible, and a heartfelt thanks to all the local businesses that donated generously and to Raw Muscle gym members who sponsored the lift.”

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