A SIX-YEAR-OLD has been able to saddle up for the first time thanks to the efforts of fundraisers in East Lancashire.

Little Alfie Furnival, from Ramsbottom, who suffers from a rare undiagnosed genetic disorder, had been unable to ride a bike like other boys.

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But his family has now taken delivery of a £1,600 specially-adapted trike due to the generous support of family, friends and the wider community.

Mum Natalie, of Lime Grove, said: “He loves the bike.

“It tires him out very quickly but he loves riding around on the streets and down to the park.”

Natalie and her husband Peter got their thinking caps on after discovering that Alfie could not handle a conventional bike.

His condition means he has excessive skin lines on his hands and legs.

He has learning difficulties and was diagnosed with epilepsy when he was only eight weeks old.

The new trike has a number of adaptations, including special foot straps so his feet will be stuck to the pedals, a harness, and parent handles – and Alfie couldn’t be more delighted with the new arrival.

A golf tournament was initially staged for the Millwood Primary pupil’s appeal at Lowes Park Golf Club in Bury.

This was followed later by a fundraiser, featuring a bowling match and barbecue, at the Rose and Crown pub in Carr Street, with the total proceeds amounting to £1,700.

Raffle prizes were forthcoming from Peel Lions and Walmersley Carpets, among others and a Just Giving page was established as part of the fundraising effort.

Alfie’s parents were told, when he was little more than a year old, that he may never walk or talk but he has defied medical opinion to do both. His epilepsy is controlled by medication.