The parents of a Lower Gornal youngster with a rare genetic disorder are hosting a masquerade ball to raise cash for a charity that is now close to their hearts.

Taylor Atkiss has Ectodermal Dysplasia, which can affect the development or function of the teeth, hair, nails and sweat glands. The four-year-old Red Hall Primary School pupil only has six teeth and the front tooth, which was very pointed and sharp, has now been capped to look 'normal'. His father, Stuart Atkiss, said:

"He has had lots of visits to the Birmingham Children's Hospital to work on his teeth and they are now making him dentures, which he will wear all of the time. It doesn't really bother him and none of his school friends question it or even notice, which I'm very happy about."

Mr Atkiss said that currently, there are only around 500 people in the UK affected by the condition, and without the help of the Ectodermal Dysplasia Society, he doesn't know how he and his fiancee, Michelle Ford, would have coped.

The 33-year-old continued: "The charity has helped us loads. Diana, the founder, was lovely and sent us booklets to read about the condition and helped us to see the appropriate specialists at Birmingham Children's Hospital.

"The society help lots of other families too and make schools aware of the condition as most children can't sweat and can overheat, causing seizures."

Mr Atkiss, who is now one of the charity's trustees, has arranged a masquerade ball at The Royal British Legion in Ruiton Street, Lower Gornal on March 4.

He hopes to raise to raise more than £1,500 through the event, which will include a buffet, raffle and entertainment from Gotta Groove.

Tickets for the 7pm event cost £15 for adults and £5 for under 16s and are available by calling Mr Atkiss on 07824633302.