More than 34 children from William de Yaxley Junior School, in Yaxley, near Peterborough, held the second birthday bash for Nicholas Shoesmith, who suffers from pyloric stenosis, a one-in-a-million condition which stops him being able to digest food properly.

The traditional children's birthday party saw youngsters munching on sandwiches, cakes, jelly and ice cream, while young Nicholas, who is unable to eat, was fed once every hour through a tube in his stomach.

However, the tot was able to join in with a whole host of party games including pass the parcel, musical chairs and pin the tale on the donkey.

He also demonstrated a few of his smooth moves on the dancefloor.

Nicholas's dad, Michael, said: "Nicholas loved the party, he loves being with people and especially likes the music.

"He also went to another party with other friends at the weekend, so he is shattered now."

Nicholas also suffers from Goldenhar syndrome, a congenital birth defect which causes deformities of the face.

And Mr Shoesmith said the money raised through the school in Lansdown Road, Yaxley, over the past two years, would go towards paying for further surgery when he is aged nine or 10.

The youngster will be given reconstructive surgery which will straighten up his jaw and give him a new ear.

Caretaker at the school, Bob Higgs chose to raise cash for the Nicholas Shoesmith Appeal after hearing about his condition.

Mr Higgs said: "So far, the school has raised hundreds of pounds which will go into a trust fund to help him later on in life.

"Nicholas is a lovely little boy who touched all of our hearts from the moment we met him. We hope that he will be attending the school in a couple of years time."

The youngster, who underwent four major operations in the first 18 months of his life, will hear in January if he is to undergo a fifth life changing operation, which could mean he can eat like a normal child.

If you would like to donate any money to the Nicholas Shoesmith Appeal, call Bob on 01733 240323.