AYESHA Khan is one of the faces of the Sparkle Appeal, and a child for whom the South Gwent Children's Centre would be invaluable.

The 11-year-old, from Haynes Court, Pill, who has just started at Liswerry High School, has spina bifida, which confines her to a wheelchair, and kidney problems.

Mum Jabeen echoed Mrs Jones' praise for the staff at Eveswell, where Ayesha has received therapy for several years, but said a new centre is long overdue.

"This has been a dream for so long, and so many people have worked so hard. The Assembly must say yes," she said.

"Ayesha continues to need therapy because of her spine and the therapists at Eveswell are marvellous, but a new building is needed," she said.

"The new centre would be purpose-built and would provide more support for families. It is good to meet other parents who are trying to deal with similar problems."