THE PARENTS of a disabled Petersfield boy trying to raise more than £1,800 for a specialised trike bike for their son say they have been overwhelmed by the generosity of individuals and businesses.

Gemma and Nick Cantan, of Rival Moor Road, heard on Monday they had reached their target for the specially made bike for their son Thomas.

He suffers from cerebral palsy in all of his limbs, epilepsy, learning difficulties and can’t speak and also has severe co-ordination problems and random and uncontrolled movements.

But recently the brave eight- year-old had a go on the trike bike, designed to keep him safe and be easy to ride, and he loved every second of it.

His delight in riding the bike, made by Tomcat, so touched Post readers that in under a fortnight, donations from pensioners, children, schools and businesses allowed the family to reach their fundraising target.

Nick said: “We’ve done it, and I can’t thank everyone enough – it’s amazing, overwhelming.

“Thank you so much to everyone who donated, shared, tweeted, commented, fundraised and supported Thomas’ campaign.

“We are completely overwhelmed with the generosity, love and support we have received from our community, friends and family. We wish we could thank you all individually.

“We received amazing comments and wishes from everyone and we are overwhelmed with how this has touched so many people in the community.

“We would love to thank Sheila at Petersfield Tesco for her kind donation and a massive thank you to Churcher’s College Junior School and Alfie’s Tricycle for their incredible donations.

“Thomas will be over the moon when he will finally be able to ride his new bright red tricycle in a couple of months’ time.

“We really cannot thank everyone enough.”