A ROSYTH youngster is set to take part in an innovative disability sport after a kind-hearted family pal launched a bid to raise cash for specialist equipment.

Three-year-old Emily Grant was born with extensive damage to the white matter in her brain, which prevents her from having full control of her motor functions, but was recently introduced to “RaceRunning”.

It is an international disability sport that provides both children and adults who can normally only get around in an electric or manual wheelchair or walker the chance to race at relatively high speed by using a Race Runner, which is also known as a Petra Bike.

After the plucky youngster enjoyed taking part, Gareth Brackley, a friend of Emily’s parents, David and Maggie, launched an online fundraising campaign in a bid to provide her with her own bike, which can cost more than £2,500.

Race Runners are running bikes that are without pedals, have a three-wheeled frame with a saddle and provide body support, providing those with a disability and impaired balance the opportunity to compete in sport of a range of distances.

An inaugural event that took place in April at Pitreavie Amateur Athletics Club was attended by 20 children with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular conditions, which led to the formation of the Pitreavie RaceRunning Group.

Gareth, who runs his own plumbing and heating business, has so far raised more than £1,200 and said: “I’ve been friends with Emily’s dad since we were around 16 or 17 and I got in touch with them a month or so back.

"Emily had complications at birth but she is a cracking wee girl and this gives her something to do.

“It is specialised equipment that is adjustable to suit her needs but I just wanted to get the ball rolling. I’ve been overwhelmed with the response; within three days we’d raised £900. I’ve been absolutely gobsmacked.”

The Pitreavie group are also fundraising for specialist bikes and dad David said: “The club is still in its infancy but it is a great outlet for Emily. She enjoys it; it gives her freedom and mobility and is great that she is involved with other kids who have the same condition. She knows that she’s not on her own.”

To give a donation to help the children, visit: gofundme.com/278s2kk.