A YOUNG horse-lover is on the road to be back in the saddle by the spring.

Charlotte Purdy's wish to be able to attend riding events across the country should be fulfilled partly thanks to readers of The Northern Echo and Advertiser series.

Despite suffering the lung disease cystic fibrosis, ten-year-old Charlotte is a keen and talented horse rider.

She is eager to take part in as many gymkhanas and riding competitions while she is still able, but the lack of a suitable horse box-cum-camper van vehicle hampered her hopes for the coming year.

An appeal was launched, under the name Charlotte's Wish, to help to find a suitable second-hand vehicle to transport both her chestnut pony, Hilly, and her family, parents Heather and David, and sister Gemma.

Within weeks, the Purdys were told of an ideal replacement for the horse box, and, after a makeover, it is almost ready to hit the road in the new year to transport the family to as many riding events as possible.

It is even being given a lick of pink paint.

Mrs Purdy was full of praise for readers who supported the appeal to help to fund the purchase.

"We want to express our huge thanks to all readers who made donations. We had an excellent response across the board.

"Someone who knows us told us of a suitable vehicle available from a family in Stockton.

Enough money was raised fairly quickly to buy it, but it has needed work doing inside.

"We are doing it bit by bit, but it will be ready for the first shows in about April.

"Charlotte said she wanted it to be able to get back in the show ring next year, and it will enable us to travel a lot further to events."

Although Charlotte has recently been treated at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary, she was well recently considered well enough to return to the family home, in Esh Winning, County Durham, for Christmas.

She is now eagerly looking forward to renewing acquaintance with Hilly for a successful riding season.