Dream granted for disabled boy

FUND-RAISING by a UK charity has enabled a little boy s wish for a specially-built trike to come true. Four-year-old Oliver Smith, from Saling Road, Stebbing, dreamt of having a specially-built trike after he used one at school. He was born with a chronic

FUND-RAISING by a UK charity has enabled a little boy's wish for a specially-built trike to come true.

Four-year-old Oliver Smith, from Saling Road, Stebbing, dreamt of having a specially-built trike after he used one at school.

He was born with a chronic form of Dystonic Cerebral Palsy, which affects the movement of his body and can cause him to make slow, twisting movements.

Mark Smith, Oliver's father, said: "The trike is specially made for Oliver. He loves it and can now go out on bike rides with his sister, Eleanor, and brother, Teddy."

Oliver's wish was granted by Kids In Need, a charity that helps to grant the wishes of children aged three to 19 who are seriously or terminally ill, or who have multiple disabilities.

It all started after Mark and his wife, Allison, were told about KIN by another parent. After applying, Oliver was measured by specialist bike builders from WRK in Cambridgeshire.

Oliver was then shown a selection of different models that were available and WRK staff made sure they had the right kind for Oliver's needs.

Two weeks ago the £750 trike was delivered. Final adjustments were made to make sure everything fitted correctly and Oliver was able to try it out.

"We told Oliver it was coming and he was very excited. He was quite daunted by it at first but he loves it. It's made such a difference. He rides it up and down the lane all the time," said Mr Smith.

The blue trike is fitted with several special features including straps on the pedals and brackets that attach to Oliver's calves enabling him to pedal.

The seat also has a support built into it which holds Oliver in place while he's cycling.

Oliver also has a special pair of Velcro gloves which help him keep his hands on the handle bars. A bar at the front enables Oliver's parents to steer him while he is using it.

Mr Smith wanted to say a special thank you: "We are so very, very grateful to Kids in Need.

"This has made a great deal of difference to us and gives Oliver the chance to really join in with the things his brother and sister enjoy."

A spokesman for Kids In Need said: "If anyone has a child whose wish they would like to see granted, or to find out about how they can help, our project co-ordinator is Gloria Poole and she can be contacted on 07786 082076".