A YOUNG cerebral palsy sufferer is looking forward to joining other Burley-in-Wharfedale youngsters in mainstream education this September.

Five-year-old Joshua Hartley, of Manse Crescent, will be able to meet other village children - some of them for the first time - when he joins Burley and Woodhead Primary School at the beginning of the next school year.

He and his twin brother, Sam, have so far been attending the specialist Lister Lane School in Bradford for three years, but it is hoped Sam will also be able to join the Burley school in 2004.

The boys were born 13 weeks prematurely. Sam also has cerebral palsy, and has no speech. He is only able to speak to his family and friends via an electronic communication aid.

As well as having difficulty walking, Joshua suffers from hydrocephalus - a condition in which a watery fluid collects in ventricles in the brain. A surgically-fitted device enables the fluid to drain into his stomach. Babies born prematurely are at greater risk of developing the condition.

Their mother, Michelle, said: "It's a big step for Josh. He's been going to the school to meet some of the kids moving up with him, and he's been really enjoying himself."

Mrs Hartley said neither Joshua nor Sam has met many of the children their own age in Burley, as they could not go to local playgroups or have the chance to mix with other youngsters when they were younger - so going to school in the village will give them a chance to make new friends.

The boys' father, Darren, gave up his job as a printer to become a full-time carer for the children. More recently, he has again been able return to working life with a job in a local shop.

Mr Hartley and a group of friends raised money by doing the 'Full Monty' at a special fundraising night at Ben Rhydding's Hollygarth Social Club last year, to buy Sam a touch-screen computer. His voice aid was bought by Education Bradford.

His parents now believe his communication skills are coming along rapidly, and hope he can join his brother in the village school in 2004.

"He's been coming on in leaps and bounds," said Mrs Hartley.

Burley and Woodhead Primary School, on Sandholme Drive, has easily-accessible facilities for children, including disabled toilets, and already caters for the needs of a disabled pupil. When Joshua joins the school, he will have an assistant with him at all times to help him out in the classroom.