An inspiration to all of us

11:53am Monday 7th July 2008

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THERE is no shortage of things for people to feel miserable about locally and nationally at the moment.

Our so-called summer weather and the way the economy has taken a turn for the worse in the past six months are just two topics which induce gloom.

But every now and then we read about an individual whose own situation puts our supposed woes into perspective and whose attitude to life is an inspiration to us all.

Joshua Ford, who celebrated his tenth birthday yesterday, is one of those people.

Last year he had both legs amputated after contracting a rare form of meningitis – a devastating experience for any youngster.

But instead of sitting down and feeling sorry for himself Joshua has been getting used to a pair of prosthetic NHS limbs while his family raise cash for a pair of superior specialist legs which he will be able to use when he stops growing.

And at the weekend he turned out for the first time since last year to join team-mates from Ightenleigh Juniors FC in a training session.

The club are so impressed with his skill that they have written to the FA seeking permission to play him next season.

Joshua, you’re a star.