A disabled teenager was celebrating today after firefighters rebuilt his treasured bike almost destroyed by arsonists.

Jack Punter's quad bike caught fire when the family's garage in St Christopher's Close, Canvey, was torched.

Overjoyed - Jack Punter with firemen Simon Porter, Mike Jones, Phil Dobinson and Danny Kay and the quad bike rebuilt by the firefighters' blue watch Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

The bike had been a Christmas present for Jack, 13, who has severe arthritis. It meant he could go out with his dad, Derek, walking.

Leading firefighter Mike Jones said: "The plastic parts melted and it was unusable. Jack and his dad were heartbroken, so me and the other lads on blue watch decided to help."

Jack's mum, Dawn, 42, said: "The firefighters have done a wonderful job and Jack is absolutely delighted. It was very kind of them."

Published Monday, January 20, 2003

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