YOUNG Wirral cancer victim Elliot Wild's story touched the hearts of the nation as his mum appealed for BBC Children in Need donations on Friday night.

Mum Jackie Wild, from Bebington, told the nine-year-old's heart-breaking tale in a bid to boost funds for Claire House Hospice where Elliot passed away earlier this year.

She appeared on the show with her younger son Finley to tell viewers how the staff at the hospice helped the family in their hour of need.

And his story, which was introduced by Wirral-educated James Bond star Daniel Craig, has created a "phenomenal response" to the Clatterbridge-based centre over the weekend.

Football-mad Elliot died in March after losing his brave battle with leukaemia, despite being just days away from a life-saving transplant.

His plight to find a bone marrow match struck a chord with hundreds of Globe readers who turned out for a special recruitment event for the Anthony Nolan Trust.

And now the rest of the country has also been moved by Elliot's bravery with his story trending worldwide on social network site Twitter.

A spokesman for Claire House said: "Jackie, Ian and Finley have been fantastic in filming their story for Children in Need which has allowed us this opportunity.

"The response over the weekend has been phenomenal and much more than we ever expected.

"We want to thank everyone who took the time to watch on Friday as well as those who have also donated over the weekend, direct to Claire House.

"Thank you so much for your continued support, it means everything to all here at Claire House".

Jackie’s national appeal comes as she launches a massive fundraising drive to get local schools involved with the charity.

She wants the "Schools 4 Claire House" campaign to build links between all children, whether they are being cared for at the hospice or not.

It is hoped the appeal will go some way to opening up two extra beds at the site.

She said: "This campaign is all about raising awareness of Claire House and how fantastic they are.

"We were just an ordinary family who never thought we would have to use their services, but unfortunately we did.

"I cannot speak highly enough of them and how amazing they were to us.

"I always say that all kids are special but the ones who go to Claire House are extra special.

"Wouldn't it be great if children could lend a hand to other children who are a bit poorly and need more care?

"If every school in Wirral held just one event, we could raise thousands of pounds for the hospice and get that little bit closer to opening up two more beds."

For more information on Schools 4 Claire House and how to get involved, e-mail schools@claire-house.org.uk or call 0151 343 0883.

Claire House is also holding an open evening for local headteachers and school staff who want to know more about the charity.

The event will take place on Friday, November 25 from 4pm-7pm at the hospice.