BRAVE Chudleigh boy Brad Oliver has touched the hearts of the Mid-Devon Advertiser staff.

The 11-year-old, who suffers from a potentially life-threatening heart condition, spent hours making and decorating a sponge cake and even used his own, home made raspberry jam.

His efforts, which included hand made sugarcraft animals and bird decorations, were to thank the newspaper and reporter Nigel Canham for highlighting his battle with the condition and how his pet labrador Fudge's unique gift keeps him safe.

Since the story appeared, Brad has become something of a celebrity in Chudleigh and mum Katrina says it has given him more confidence.<