AN 11-year-old boy has delivered a heartfelt plea for a new electric powerchair so that he can be eye-to-eye with his friends.

Bobby Allen, from Worcester, was diagnosed with Type 3 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) when he was 23 month old.

He subsequently lost the ability to walk independently at three, and has since relied on either a manual wheelchair or powerchair to get around.

Bobby, who is a keen powerchair footballer, is starting secondary school next year.

His parents, Ally and Stuart, are now trying to raise £5,000 for a new chair with a special raising function.

The function will allow Bobby to rise up so he can be eye to eye with all his friends and teachers when they talk to him. 

The chair's additional speed will also mean Bobby can leave lessons at the same time as his friends, instead of having to set off 15 minutes earlier than everyone else to get to classes.

In a touching appeal, Bobby said: "Hi, my name is Bobby and I am a 'normal' 11-year-old boy. I'm funny, kind, smart, friendly, and look out for others. 

"I also enjoy football and gaming, my only difference is I'm disabled.

"I am starting high school next year (2022) and my mum and dad are currently trying to raise funds to help purchase a new powerchair for me.

"This powerchair will have a rising function so I can rise up to be at the same eye level as my friends (we are all really tall) and teachers when they talk to me.

"I will be able to reach the high tables in the classrooms and I can also reach up to the ice cream van when he comes around.

"This powerchair will also give me a bit more speed, not formula one style, but it will allow me to leave the classrooms at the same time as my peers and reach class on time. I will also be able to comfortably move around the school more easily.

"Due to my condition, I am also likely to develop Scoliosis, where my spine can curve.

This new powerchair will give me a better position and support my spine better. 

"I need to do stretches every day, and these can be uncomfortable, this new powerchair will allow me to recline straight back including lifting my feet and legs, making my stretches more comfortable for me.

"Outside of school I'm a keen footballer and enjoy playing powerchair football.

"I love Liverpool FC and I also love gaming. I have a little brother Freddy who is six and we have a great time together, we do also fight but that's normal brotherly love.

"Thank you for taking the time to listen to me and my story."

Bobby's family will receive a small amount of money from charity Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK.

However, it won't be anywhere near enough to cover the full cost of the chair. 

To make up the shortfall, Bobby's family and friends are running various events and fundraisers, including a fitness class marathon at Perdiswell Leisure Centre on Sunday, November 21 from 9-1pm.

They've asked for as many people to turn out as possible.

You can donate here