A SEVEN-year-old with a genetic condition will be helping declare a shop near Wellington that’s dedicated to all things Christmassy open this Saturday (November 17).

Tayen Gilbert, who has Neurofibromatosis, will be cutting the official ribbon at Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm in Langford Budville.

Her mum, Kali Gilbert, said: “We’re thrilled that Tayen has been selected to officially open Langford Lake’s Christmas shop and Christmas tree farm.

"She’s very excited. As a family we love Christmas and this will be a treat for all of us.

“I decided to nominate Tayen as she’s a little star. Tayen has a complex medical history and her genetic condition causes tumours to grow along nerves anywhere in the body.

"She was diagnosed at 22-months-old with bilateral optic pathway gliomas (tumours) that have spread through her brain to the back. She started chemotherapy straightaway but unfortunately lost all vision just six weeks into treatment.

“Following this Tayen needed bilateral shunts to drain fluid on her brain. She also has complex epilepsy and is currently now on her third round of chemotherapy treatment.

"None of this stops her though. Tayen is a powerhouse of fun and energy and captures the hearts of everyone she meets.”

The Gilbert family has fundraised for various charities over the years.

They also visit Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) at Charlton Farm, which is Langford Lakes’ Charity of the Year.

Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm is hoping to collect as much money as possible for CHSW from the sale of mince pies and teas and coffees, aided by volunteers for the charity.

Reg Hendy, from Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm, said: “We’re so pleased that Tayen will be helping us open our Christmas tree farm and shop for the festive season.

“We would also like to invite everyone to this special festive season launch event. The fun starts with an official ribbon-cutting.

"Bring the family and enjoy the refreshments, while also helping us raise invaluable funds for CHSW.”