Proud parents of two sick youngsters were today delighted as their children became mobile for the first time.

Seven-year-old Grace Sargent and Ben Hague, three, are unable to walk alone, but thanks to generous donations they are now standing tall.

Own two feet - Ben Hague can take steps on his own thanks to his new walking frame Picture: TERENCE BUNCH

Ben was born with a disorder affecting the back of his brain.

It means Ben - a pupil at Lancaster School, in Westcliff - has a weak left side, impaired vision and poor speech.

However, thanks to the generosity of local bank workers, Ben now has a specialised frame which allows him to walk.

Mum Anya, 26, said: "It was wonderful watching Ben take his first steps because he has never walked before."

The £1,300 David Hart frame was bought with money raised by staff at HSBC in Southend, with additional funding from Kids in Need and Southend Lions.

Grace, of South Crescent, Southend, was given a special bike from the Hapee World charity, presented by Norman Wisdom before he took to the stage at the Cliffs Pavilion.

Published Monday, April 14, 2003

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