A DISABLED youngster is celebrating a new set of wheels, thanks to the help of fundraisers and the generosity of the public.

A sponsored line dance, quiz night and bowling competition were among the activities held to raise £2,770 for a new wheelchair for Newsome boy John Beaumont.

The 13-year-old was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was a baby after suffering a collapsed lung the day after he was born.

Until recently John’s family had cared for him using the wheelchair and buggy he was provided with.

But mum Gail Malone, of Edale Avenue, said the equipment was becoming too uncomfortable.

She said: “The wheelchair he had was heavy and awkward and the buggy wasn’t comfortable for him to sit in.

“When I first saw the new wheelchair and was told how much it was I thought we’d never get it. But we managed to raise it in just nine weeks.

“I just want to thank everyone who has helped us.”

Gail and husband Tony set about organising a number of fundraising events at Newsome Working Men’s Club to add to the £1,100 they were given by the NHS’s wheelchair services.

Twelve women took part in 30 line dances in two hours to raise £1,300. Almost £300 was raised by a Mr and Mrs quiz night and a bowler and non-bowler competition added £233 to the cause.

Family friend Terry Haigh raised £75 by selling domino cards and cakes.

And John’s grandfather, Peter Chapman, of Honley, also raised £200. Sadly, he died days before John got his new chair.

Gail added: “It is a shame his grandad never got to see the chair because he collected a lot of money for it.

“But John is very happy about the new chair and it is a lot lighter to push. It has made life much easier.

“Thank you so much to everyone.”