A SELFLESS youngster has been labelled an “inspiration” for her incredible fundraising spirit, despite suffering from a potentially life-threatening disease.

At just 12-years-old, Phoebe Maddison, who has type 1 diabetes, has done more to help others than some people will do in a lifetime.

Most recently, she was the inspiration for the Swindon Stagecoach Theatre Group’s special July performance, from which more than £3,500 was raised for the charity JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).

And on Monday a cheque was handed over at the Stagecoach office in Wanborough with beaming smiles all round.

Phoebe, who has been a member of the theatre group for the past five or six years, said: “I think it is incredible the amount of money we managed to raise for the foundation. I’m really proud of everyone who took part; the level of support has been absolutely fantastic.

“I’m the only member of Stagecoach who has type 1 diabetes and it feels amazing to be able to do something like this for such a good cause.”

Phoebe, who lives in North Swindon and attends Isambard Community School, was earlier this year given a Pride of Swindon award for all her fundraising efforts.

Proud mum Michelle said: “She does so much for charity, she is such an inspirational child.”

The July performance, entitled True Colours, was held in front of a packed crowd at the Wyvern Theatre and incorporated the theme of ‘colours’ into each song and dance routine.

Sheryll Fox, principal of Stagecoach, said: “Phoebe is wonderful. She inspired us to do something to raise money for the foundation and it’s a pleasure to support her.

“It was great for the children to be involved with something so important and performing arts is all about working together.”

Ally Colton, South West regional fundraiser for JDRF, said: “It is amazing that these people have got together to do this for us. We are constantly trying to raise funds to help those with type 1 diabetes and we are grateful for all the support we receive.

“Not many people know that those who have type 1 diabetes are living with a life-threatening illness and it’s fantastic that Phoebe and everyone at Stagecoach have chosen to support us.”

The performance actually brought in more than £7,000 in total, before it was split between JDRF, which supports people with type 1 diabetes and their families, and Swindon 105.5 Community Radio.

Phoebe is currently in the running to go to Washington DC in July to represent JDRF’s. She is one of seven possible candidates and is very excited about the prospect.

Deputy Mayor Maureen Penny, who also attended the cheque presentation, said: “I think it is wonderful to see someone dedicated to raising money for charity at such a young age. She is very inspirational."