How Facebook users have been urged to support Hartlepool youngster Alfie Smith

This is the image Alfie's family are hoping people will use as their Facebook profile picture for a week.

Nine-year-old Alfie Smith, who has cerebral palsy, is in need of donations to help him undergo a life-changing operation.

Alfie is hoping to have an operation which would allow him to walk unaided for the first time.

A campaign to fund the operation is currently £17,000 short of its £50,000 target.

The youngster's family has now asked Facebook users to change their profile picture to an image of Alfie for a week to raise awareness of the campaign in a bid to boost funds.

A post on the 'Help Alfie walk for the first time' Facebook page said: "We are setting all of Alfie's followers a challenge.

"Change your profile to the one below of Alfie for just one week. Show your support and copy the picture below."

A Just Giving page for Alfie has now closed. However, donations can still be made to Alfie’s Trust Fund – Help Alfie Walk, Sort code 30 - 98 - 90 Account No 16304360.