A BOLTON father intends to put his best foot forward to help his daughter splash out in Australia.

Kelly Walmsley celebrated her 18th birthday a few weeks ago, more than five years after being given a new heart in a life-saving operation at Wythenshawe Hospital.

Now the plucky teenager is set to represent her country in the World Transplant Games pool next year - but first is in need of sponsorship.

Father, Keith, 40, aims to make great strides in reaching the £1,500 to £2,000 target required, by taking part in the New York Marathon. He is paying for the trip over to the Big Apple himself and is asking for people to sponsor his run in the high profile event, held on Sunday November 3.

Kelly, of Westhoughton, who has been a regular at the Wigan School of Excellence, was chosen to represent England after winning numerous medals in the British Transplant Games.

Keith said: "I have ran in both the London and Bolton Marathons twice before, but this will be my last one. I am confident of finishing, although have no idea in what time.

"Kelly has done so very well in being chosen, but everyone has to raise their own sponsorship money.

"It is hard to believe she had the operation five and a half years ago. She was 18 a few weeks ago, is driving now and studying for her A Levels."

Anyone able to help sponsor Keith in his run can contact him on 01942 819650.

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