A YOUNGSTER with a rare muscle disease will get to push the button to bring Clacton Town Centre to life this Christmas.

Two-year-old Stanley Newman, of Skelmersdale Road, Clacton, will get to turn on the town’s Christmas lights at this year’s big switch-on event.

The brave tot has a rare disease called congenital muscular dystrophy, which affects his muscles and is gradually weakening him.

Family and friends have been raising cash so he can have a special wheelchair.

Fundraiser Rosalyn Bowers also set up a campaign on Facebook for Stanley to take pride of place at Clacton’s Christmas switch-on.

It was backed by hundreds of people and event organisers from Clacton Town Partnership agreed. Stanley will now join the cast of the West Cliff Theatre’s festive variety show in pressing the button at the event.

Dad Rob Newman said: “It all started with the Facebook page being set up by Rosalyn.

“There was a phenomenal response straight away and more than 700 people had ‘liked’ the page within two days.

“My wife, Laura, met with Clacton Town Partnership and they were really happy to let Stanley get involved.

“It will be massive for him, a real thrill to be up there and part of a really special event to light up Clacton.

“We’re so grateful for the continuing support and the opportunity to get involved here.

It all helps to raise the profile of Stanley’s condition and our appeal.”

The switch-on festivities will take place in Clacton Town Square from 3pm to 7pm on December 6. The lights will be turned on at 5pm and there will also be stalls, performers and late-night shopping.