DISABILITY signs stolen from outside the home of a seven-year-old boy with Down’s syndrome have been replaced thanks to kind-hearted charity volunteers.

The team behind Bishop Auckland-based Bringing Back a Smile have also arranged for Max Pedelty and his family to enjoy a holiday together later in the year.

Leukaemia survivor Max has Down’s syndrome and limited mobility, and, although he can walk on flat surfaces, he is prone to falling over.

When his mother, Mandy Pedelty, revealed the disabled access signs had been stolen from the back gate of the family’s home in Willington last month, many people expressed their shock and disgust on Facebook.

Bringing Back a Smile founder Kevin Hill, from Newfield, also heard about what happened and arranged for the signs to be replaced.

But he did not stop there. Mr Hill also offered the family a free short break at Primrose Valley Holiday Park, near Filey, in North Yorkshire.

The park is owned by Haven and Max, who is a great admirer of the company’s mascot, Anxious the Elephant, could not be happier.

Mrs Pedelty said: “Max was so excited when Kevin told us. He absolutely loves the pink elephant. He kept hugging Kevin and saying ‘you’re my friend.’

“We are so grateful to Brining Back a Smile. Kevin is a wonderful person. We only met him recently but it feels like we have known him for years. When he bought the signs for us it reminded us that there are good people in the world.”

Bringing Back a Smile was set up last year and is a registered charity. It raises funds to support children and adults with life-limiting illnesses, including paying for respite holidays, specialist equipment and treats.

Mr Hill said: “We first met Max and his family late last year as we were putting together Christmas hampers, and Max was one of the children who received one.

“When I heard about the signs, I couldn’t believe someone could stoop so low.

“Max is a lovely lad, he’s my mate. He said he would only have his picture taken if I wore a beanie hat like him.

“Making kids like Max smile is what the charity is all about.”

To find out more about Bringing Back a Smile, visit bringingbackasmile.co.uk