TODAY the Daily Echo tells the story of one of the most remarkable community-based charity campaigns in recent times.

In just 44 days – yes, six weeks – the Daily Echo backed Wetwheel’s appeal to transform the lives of hundreds of disabled youngsters and their families from across Hampshire has been successful.

Yesterday campaigners popped the champagne corks to celebrate reaching the £70,000 target to help youngsters people experience the thrill of power boating.

The response to the campaign has been incredible – both in speed and generosity.

It shows the inspirational qualities of Hampshire sailor Geoff Holt MBE – whose leadership and determination from the outset were a major factor in the appeal’s success.

Geoff was the first quadriplegic to sail solo round the UK and then later across the Atlantic, and the success of the Wetwheels appeal must go down as another of his brilliant achievements.

It proves once again the strength of a local newspaper in being able to galvanise its readers to work together and help provide much-needed facilities that otherwise may not exist.

It is also a good example of how generous Daily Echo readers can be when asked to rally round to support a worthwhile cause.

Finally, there can be no better example to show what can actually be achieved when we all work to together to make a difference in the our community – thanks for your support.