SUPPORTERS from all over the world backed a Bury charity's awareness-raising campaign by turning social media red last week.

Annabelle's Challenge put out a request for supporters to wear something red and share a photo to raise awareness of Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (VEDS), a rare, life-threatening genetic condition.

Posts came in from countries including Canada, France, Germany, Argentina, South Africa and the USA, backing the annual Reds4Veds Day on Friday, May 20.

The event was jointly organised by Ireland EDS&HMS and Annabelle's Challenge, which is named after Brandlesholme seven-year-old Annabelle Griffin.

Jared Griffin, Annabelle's father, said: “It was great to see our social media newsfeeds turn red in support of vascular EDS helping to raise awareness across the world, the response this year was amazing and is still continuing.”

Woodbank Primary, where Annabelle is a pupil, also got in on the campaign by asking pupils and staff to come to school dressed in red.

Special guests included the newly elected Mayor of Bury, Cllr Mike Connolly, his Consort, Ian Hargreaves, and Bury FC mascot Robbie the Bobby.

As well as fundraising via a cake sale, and nail and face painting, pupils were invited pupils to vote for a teacher to be dunked in goo and the punishment was given to Annabelle’s mum, Sarah, and teacher Colin Anderson.

Mr Griffin added: “Walking into the assembly hall with Annabelle was an emotional moment to see the effort that had gone into making Reds4Veds so special with Annabelle at the heart of the awareness. I would like to thank the staff for ensuring it was a success and to the parents and children for getting behind the campaign.

“We are delighted that all proceeds raised by the staff and pupils will be donated back to the school to help fund a planned sensory garden project which will benefit pupils and the local community.”

Kelly Macadam, the school's headteacher, added: "It was a fabulous day, really lovely. The mayor and consort were fantastic with the children and really enjoyed the day.

"We are raised about £450 on the day, which is a great achievement."