A BRAVE disabled four-year-old boy has had the “best ever” Christmas present after fund-raisers provided him with a new wheelchair.

Jonty Smith, of Farleigh Road, Pershore, was his usual happy self for the public ‘thank you’ on Saturday to the people who helped raise £9,000 in six weeks.

The cash was for a wheelchair which allows him to get about more easily and will boost his independence, allowing him to keep up with school mates.

About 50 people turned up to Chapman Court in town to hear messages of support and see the chair in action.

Jonty was beaming from ear to ear as he cruised about, wearing his favourite Fireman Sam outfit.

Mum and dad Jane and Ian Keen-Smith and Jonty’s three brothers were all there to share the happy occasion.

Jane said: “It’s absolutely brilliant.”

A town fire crew turned up to back the civic celebration led by mayor Chris Parsons and Wychavon District Council chairman Linda Robinson.

Trudy Burge, fund-raising co-ordinator, said: “We’re here today to celebrate and say a very big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has helped.

“Thank you very much to all the people of Pershore – it’s made the best Christmas present.

“We’ve been overwhelmed.

“To raise £9,000 in six weeks is phenomenal and we are so very happy.”

The youngster suffers from cerebral palsy, epilepsy and left hemiplegia – meaning the limbs of his left side are severely weakened.

But he has won fans by the bucket-load with his cheeky, happy outlook and often brings smiles to every face.

• To see a video of photos from the fund-raising campaign visit http://bit.ly/hDXMv5