A PROMINENT York businesswoman has drawn upon the personal experience to raise awareness of a condition that's close to her heart.

Kay Bradley, owner of Bradley’s Jewellers in Low Petergate in the city centre hosted a social media competition for its customers to raise awareness of lower limb conditions.

It comes after Kay's six-year-old son, Rupert – would need surgery after he was diagnosed with bilateral talipes in infancy and has since required numerous operations and lifelong physical therapy.

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Rupert in leg casts and his new wheelchairRupert in leg casts and his new wheelchair (Image: Supplied)

In light of this Bradley's brought its Twinkle Toes Collection to the forefront in August, and following a series of social media updates, Bradley’s Jewellers York hosted a small competition on social media on Thursday, August 15.

It gave customers the chance to win a Twinkle Toes charm pendant and Bradley’s reached more than 10,000 accounts, achieving 500+ views on its Instagram stories, and receiving nearly 300 Likes on its posts.

As a result of the interest, Bradley’s more than doubled the number of prizes it was offering to entrants and was able to direct its customers to vital causes, such as Steps - the leading charity working for all those whose lives are affected by childhood lower limb conditions.

The Twinkle Toes Collection, first launched in 2022, includes sterling silver and 9ct rose and yellow gold charm pendants engraved with a pair of feet. On the reverse side, the word ‘Hope’ in a rainbow outline encourages the wearer to be optimistic and positive, even during challenging times.

Kay said: “I always knew I wanted to create a collection that would shine a light on my son’s condition and all those who are struggling with lower limb conditions. As the range grew and word of its meaning spread, I was able to use these charm pendants to draw attention to charities that are near and dear to me, including Steps, Sands, The Miscarriage Association, and York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.”

Kay Bradley with the Twinkle Toes CollectionKay Bradley with the Twinkle Toes Collection (Image: Gareth Buddo)

Kay said she will continue to champion local causes by providing a raffle prize for the upcoming Celebration of Achievement Awards, hosted by York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity and the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Bradley has pledged a pair of Bella Diamond Cluster earrings, worth £1,000, making this her third consecutive donation to the Trust. The event will take place at York Racecourse on Thursday, September 19.

For further information, please contact infobradleys@btconnect.com or (01904) 655 235.