Inspired by an Abbots Langley woman who averted death after contracting a rare brain disease, the village's residents’ association is backing her campaign to raise as much money as possible for the hospital which saved her life.

In June 1997, Jo Fulleylove, of Gable Close, was diagnosed with parainfectious encephomylitis.

The disease, which is usually related to previous viral illness, produces neurological symptoms including seizures, headache, drowsiness and can affect mobility.

After being told by doctors she may never walk again, Ms Fulleylove said that through determination, the support of her family and the excellent care provided by nurses at Great Ormond Street Hospital, she has beaten the odds and is back on her feet.

Now, the 22-year-old is on a mission to raise as much money as possible for the hospital, with a fundraising campaign.

In January this year the family came to the Watford Observer pleading for residents to donate bottle tops, as a recycling firm in Portsmouth has promised to give £25 per half tonne received, so that they can be recycled.

Moved by Ms Fulleylove’s determination, the Hillside Residents’ Association in School Mead is offering to act as a collection point for anyone who wants to drop-off plastic lids.

Peter Scott, association chairman, said: “We were all incredibly moved by Jo’s decision to help Great Ormond Street Hospital.

“We first became aware that she had parainfectious encephomylitis in 1997 and wanted to help in any way we could.

“We’re welcoming people to deposit their lids in the big blue bin outside the entrance.

“We’re really glad to be supporting a charitable cause and essentially helping a local girl give back.”

So far, Ms Fulleylove’s family has collected more than 270,000 bottle tops for recycling.

Her stepfather, Shaun Beard, added: “We’re so incredibly overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and support.

“It’s a wonderful gesture from Hillside to act as a collecting point for lids.

“They’ve also pledged to help us organise our charity disco in August.

“We are still on the lookout for businesses and individuals willing to support the event – anything anyone can spare can make all the difference.”

•Donate bottle tops at 21 Gable Close, Abbots Langley or Hillside Residents’ Association offices in School Mead, Abbots Langley.

•To sponsor the charity disco email: goshfraiser@yahoo.co.uk or call Shaun Beard on: 07752841337