FOOTBALL mad Kyle Forster is another step closer to realising his dreams of playing for England’s Powerchair Football team.

Kyle, who plays wheelchair football, has Duchenne muscular dystrophy – a severe type of muscular syndrome which means, although still mobile now, Kyle may eventually be completely reliant on a wheelchair.

After a successful fundraising appeal by Kyle’s parents Lynsey and Aaron Forster, the Darlington youngster, who is a member of Middlesbrough Powerchair Football Club, was able to get the adaptations needed for his football wheelchair.

Mrs Forster said: “Lots of people responded – friends, Kyle’s school, neighbours. We raised more than £7,000 and were able to sort out the adaptations. We then heard from Darlington Town FC and they wanted to help Kyle too.”

The club organised an event and raised more than £1,500.

They money will be used to adapt a wheelchair for when Kyle starts secondary school next September. Mrs Forster said: “Kyle will be much more independent at secondary school, so needs a wheelchair that will suit his needs. The money Darlington Town raised has really helped. Kyle had a fantastic time at the club, they made him feel very special. We really appreciated what they have done.

“Kyle loves football so much and aspires to play for England Powerchair Football team. Being a member of the Middlesbrough club has really given Kyle so much more confidence.”

Kyle attends hospital in Newcastle once a week and is involved in a four-year worldwide medical trial, but he still finds time to train with his team twice a week, and plays in a match at the weekend.