By Sarah Newstead

Last updated 10:29, Monday, 05 May 2008

CARLISLE businesses have rallied round to help bring a smile to the face of the little girl who can’t go out in the sun.

Rallying round: Three-year-old Alice Tyson will have a day out with her family thanks to local companies. Affecting one in a million people, Alice’s Xeroderma Pigmentosum means she cannot go outside without being completely covered up including wearing a mask over her face

Three-year-old Alice Tyson, of Moorhouse, has a rare condition which means exposure to sunlight will permanently damage her skin and increase her chances of getting skin cancer.

Affecting one in a million people, Alice’s Xeroderma Pigmentosum means she cannot go outside without being completely covered up including wearing a mask over her face.

The little girl spends much of her time confined to the darkness of the family sitting room.

So dermatology nurse at the Cumberland Infirmary, Julie Bowman, decided the youngster more than deserved a grand day out.

She hit the phonebook and got in touch with businesses all over the city calling on them to pledge a treat for Alice.

She said: “A lot of local people have been so interested in Alice and I thought the family deserved something nice.

“She’s a really lovely little girl.”

On Wednesday next week Estilo Hair Salon on Corporation Road will get busy styling Alice’s and mum Tracey’s hair.

Hoopers on Castle Street will do Mrs Tyson’s make-up and Debenhams will find Alice a special outfit.

Handcrafted jewellery will come from Little Miss Tiaras on Empire Road and Alice will have transport provided by Stacey’s Coaches at Willowholme.

A photoshoot will follow at Aperture Studio on Corporation Road.

Then Alice and her mum will be joined by dad Neil and grandma Edie for a family meal at Adriano’s Italian Restaurant in Rickergate.

Mrs Tyson, 46, said: “I think this is wonderful.

“We have not been out and about really because the car is not protected. We’ve only been making trips that are absolutely necessary.

“Alice will really enjoy it.”