STAFF at Box hairdressers gave up their Sunday morning lie-in to raise money for a local boy with a rare genetic disease.

The salon was open from 10am until 3.30pm, during which more than 30 clients got their hair cut, raising £1,500.

Riccardo Amodeo, 13, of Old Basing, has adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), which affects his speech, vision and physical ability.

The money raised will cover the cost of purchasing a musical positioning cushion for Riccardo which is a therapeutic aid for sufferers of such debilitating diseases.

Riccardo's mother, Antonietta Amodeo, has been a client of Mark Patton, a director at Box, for two years.

Mr Patton said: "I was really moved by Antonietta's story and I wanted to do something to help.

"I organised this fundraising day to raise money for something to help her son."

ALD affects sufferers in different ways, but a rapid loss of intellect and primary skills often takes place.

Riccardo developed the disease four years ago and is now bed-ridden.

The cushion will act as a mental stimulant for him, allowing him to appreciate different sounds and feelings.

Pete Sullivan, a director at Box, said: "It was a fantastic day. We raised more than enough money to buy the cushion for Riccardo, which costs around £800. The rest of the money will be donated to the children's cancer care ward at Southampton General Hospital."