10:00am Thursday 9th July 2009
By Tim Ridgway
A disabled boy will soon be able to play outside with his friends - thanks to his community-minded neighbours.
Daniel Middleton, four, was born with evolving spastic cerebral palsy which limits the movement of his limbs.
But thanks to a garage sale organised by two neighbours he will be able to join in outdoor games.
The event raised £1,200 which will buy a specially-made tricycle to allow him to move independently.
Daniel’s mother Lisa Middleton, 40, of Coast Road, Pevensey Bay, said: “It’s so amazing - this will make a huge difference to his life.
“They say there is no community spirit anymore but after this I will never believe that again.
“Outside our house is a green where his friends and sister play. Daniel does join in but he gets tired very easily.
“He feels left out and wants to know why he can’t join in with the rest of the children. The difference it will make to his life will be incredible.”
The sale, held on Saturday, was organised by Fiona Gale and Margaret Upton, both of Coast Road. It received the backing of neighbours, visitors and local businesses.
The new bike will cost about £700 and is due to arrive in three weeks.
Ms Gale said: “Margaret first heard about it when Lisa went to the hairdressers.
“We were hoping to reach the £700 needed for the bike so to get more than £1,200 is fantastic.
“This will make a massive difference not only to his life but also to Lisa.
“With the new trike she will know that he is safe playing outside.”
Ms Middleton said: “I can’t thank them enough for doing this.
“Being a single mother I could have never organised this myself.
“When you have a child who is normal in every sense except for his mobility, to get this help and support from people around you means everything.
“We will put the rest of the money in a fund as Daniel is always going to need things to help him with his condition.”
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