A LOCAL teenager had the surprise of his life at his birthday party held at Crediton Football Club last month.

Ryan Fox, who has a disability, was celebrating his 13th birthday with a party for family and friends.

Little did Ryan know that his friends and family had clubbed together to buy an all-terrain wheelchair.

Neither he or his parents, Kim or Darren, were aware of the surprise gift, which was adapted and updated before he received it.

It was spray painted by Mark Bradford, had new foam padding, thanks to a donation by Tuckers of Crediton, and Eakers who donated the foam.

Ryan’s father explained that the increased mobility has already enabled the whole family to enjoy a visit to Shobrooke Park, which was a great occasion for Ryan and all of them.

Jeanette Crook, Ryan’s grandmother was one of those in on the secret gift and she said it was a “fantastic surprise”, adding that there “wasn’t a dry eye in the room” when the presentation was made.

Darren said he could not thank enough all those who had made the gift possible.

Alan Quick