THREE-year-old Riley Platts, of Guiseley, has had a number of operations at Leeds General Infirmary to correct a rare congenital heart defect, truncus arteriosis – where the two main arteries are joined together – and although he is fit and well, he will need further operations as he grows older.

As part of an event to promote the start of the Helping Young Hearts appeal, Riley met Sheffield boxer Tommy Frank, 21, who had corrective heart surgery at the age of five and is now one of the UK’s top amateur flyweights.

Riley's mother Kathryn Walker, a teacher in Bradford, said anything that gives parents of children with a heart condition clearer guidance on how active they can be is a good thing.

“It would be great if people could support this appeal,” she said.

“Riley is an active little boy and we know how much activity he is capable of, but it is important for parents to know what they can do so that their child can benefit from exercise that could improve their condition.”

Tommy said that giving an exercise prescription to all young heart patients would help them and their families to be more confident about being active and ultimately help improve their wellbeing.