A Welling-bred man who needs life-saving treatment has said he is "overwhelmed" by kindness shown by people after receiving a huge donation towards his fundraising goal.

After News Shopper reported on Lee Baker's battle with sarcoidosis - a condition which doesn't allow his body to digest food - the local Freemasons decided to offer their help.

Needing a stomach pacemaker to help Mr Baker process food again, his friends and family rallied together in December and set up a Justgiving page to raise £16,000 for the surgery.

Mark Estaugh, provincial grand master of West Kent Freemasons, attended Mr Baker's fundraising evening in Crayford on Friday, April 20, to give Mr Baker, and his sister, Kelly Peoples, a cheque for £1,000 towards the fundraiser.

Upon receiving the donation, Mr Baker said: “I have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of so many people.

"I want to thank my family, friends and neighbours - and everybody who has been kind enough to come forward and support this appeal.”

Mr Estaugh, who has lived in Bexley for 45 years, said: "We were all moved when we read the article in the News Shopper about Lee’s plight.

"As a local man - and a Freemason - I am delighted that West Kent Masons are able to support this Appeal, and we all wish Lee well with his future treatment.”

Mr Baker's fundraising had raised £13,330 of its £16,000 goal at the time of publishing, and his sister, Mrs Peoples, is determined to push the campaign over the finish line.

She said: “The incredible response to Lee’s appeal has been heart-warming.

"We are steadily moving towards our target."

She added she was "absolutely delighted" to hear from the West Kent Masons offering the £1,000 donation.

In an attempt to reach the final total, Mrs Peoples will be taking on a 25km charity walk on May 12.

The fundraising page can be found at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lee-baker