The parents of a baby girl born with a brain and eye disorder were given a helping hand yesterday when a charity golfer presented them with $2,963.

David Patterson handed over the money raised in a charity golf tournament held last week to help the parents of little Sajae Richardson-Hawker pay for vital trips to America.

Sajae was born blind in one eye nine months ago and also suffers from Hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain).

Her parents Sacha Richardson and Jamel Hawker, of Alexander Road, Devonshire, have already had to make three trips to Boston to receive treatment for their daughter.

But they must return in May for a check up to ensure a shunt inserted into the little girl's head to drain off the fluid is functioning properly.

Yesterday, Mr. Hawker said he was very grateful for the help his work colleague, Mr Patterson, had given.

The 27,year-old road sweeper, who works for the Corporation of Hamilton, said: "We would like to say thank you so much for this. This money will help to pay off the credit card bills.

"I work very hard, day and night, to make more money, but it is very expensive. We have flights and hotel bills to pay and, of course, food. This money is very welcome.'' Miss Richardson, 20, said she did not know how long her daughter would continue to have to fly to Boston for check ups.

And she said although baby Sajae was born blind only in the left eye, they still had no idea how strong the sight was in her right eye.

"Travelling to Boston has cost us a fortune, but it's important we go. People have really tried to help us, family and friends, and what Mr. Patterson has done is really very good. We are very grateful to everyone.'' Seventeen teams took part in the charity golf match at Ocean View Golf Course on March 12.

Mr. Patterson, who works as a heavy equipment operator for the Corporation of Hamilton, said he loved children and wanted to help when he heard about the family's plight.

He said: "I have two children of my own and a granddaughter and I really wanted to help the family as much as I could.

"I took it upon myself to do something and decided to organise a golf tournment. I'm really pleased with the way it went and the money that we raised.

"We had so many people interested in taking part, we had to turn three teams away. It was a great success. I'm also thankful to all the sponsors who supported us.'' Golfers's gift: David Paterson (L) presents a cheque to Jamal Haker (rear), and Sacha Richardson (R) after golfers at Ocean View raised nearly $3,000 to help pay for the costs of overseas treatment for baby Sajae (centre).

GOLFERS GLF