A SPECIAL sports wheelchair has given Bolton Wanderers fan Chris Baxendale a new lease of life.

The 13-year-old Sharples High School pupil was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a baby, but that has not curbed his passion for sport.

The multi-sport wheelchair will open up new opportunities for the enthusiastic teenager.

Chris gave it a trial run at Bolton Lads and Girls Club after a surprise presentation by Wanderers boss Sam Allardyce.

The wheelchair can be adjusted for different sports. Chris's mother, Ginny Edgar, said: "Chris loves sport, especially football, which he manages to play on his crutches, but this will give him so many new opportunities.

"He's looking forward to playing wheelchair basketball, and he will be able to enjoy PE at school.

"He knew the chair was on order -- but had no idea Sam Allardyce was presenting it to him. He was thrilled. Chris has been a Wanderers fan all his life."

The wheelchair will have a real test when Chris takes it on a school footballing holiday to Milan next month.

Funding for the £2,000 wheelchair was co-ordinated by Bolton Lads and Girls Club, where Chris has been a member for two years.

A club spokesman said: "The kids held a sponsored bounce last year and raised around £450. One of the club's sponsors, Barton Grange Garden Centre, donated £500 towards the appeal and another sponsor, David Porter and his company, the Provincial Trust, donated £1,000."

SLAM DUNK: Chris and Big Sam go for a spin and try some basketball at the club

Chris and Sam Allardyce surrounded by club members