A YOUNG disabled woman has been given an early Christmas gift by fundraisers in Darlington.

When Alicia Kitching, of Coniston Street, was diagnosed with the muscle-wasting disease MLD at the age of 12, she was given five years to live.

Now, aged 22, she has confounded doctors and her family by her strength in combating the illness.

When members of Darlington Bondgate Round Table heard about Alicia's determination they decided to contribute over £800 to buy her a motorised chair.

Her mother, Rita, who lost another daughter, Helen, to the disease seven years ago, said the chair had improved Alicia's quality of life.

"She can't do anything for herself and can't stand at all. But this chair reclines so she can lay back her head, put her feet up and have her legs outstretched. She is much more comfortable than in her wheelchair."

The money for the chair was raised in the Round Table's Sleigh Appeal, when Father Christmas tours the town collecting cash. This year's appeal begins on Sunday.

Darlington Bondgate Round Table vice-president Mike Drake said: "We are delighted to have helped."