LOCAL people are being urged to collect empty baby wipe packets and help fund research into brain tumours.

The campaign has been launched by Ellie’s Fund – Brain Tumour Trust as part of its work supporting children and young people across Yorkshire.

Set up four years following the death of 14-year-old Ellie Othick-Bowmaker, from Scarborough, the charity has raised thousands of pounds to support research as well as providing assistance to families who have a child going through treatment for a brain tumour.

Ellie, was 11 when she was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in 2007.

Throughout her illness she fundraised for the charities which helped her and and family, raising over £25,000 before losing her fight with the disease on Valentine’s Day 2010.

Ellie's mum, Heather Othick, said they were aiming to get collection points for empty baby wipe packets across the country.

"The packets can be recycled for two pence and made into plastic dustbins and watering cans," she added.

"Most people with children have a packet of baby wipes with them, in the car for example and we are looking for more collection points in places such as children's centres, offices and schools."

West Heslerton Primary School, which is one of the collection points, handed over 400 packets to Heather at the end of term.

Headteacher Rachel Wells said it was a brilliant way of reusing the packets while also supporting the work of such a worthwhile charity.

"It is amazing that these empty packets can be used for recycling while raising funds," she added.

"We fully support Ellie's Fund - Brain Tumour Trust as part of our charity work and also our recycling agenda."

Anyone who would like more information should visit www.elliesfund.com