Ballygowan’s James in a spin with specialist trike

Ballygowan’s James in a spin with specialist trike

17 September 2025

A BALLYGOWAN boy, who has been presented with a specially adapted bike, is delighted to be enjoying newfound freedom and confidence.

James McClure was presented with his three-wheeler thanks to support from children’s disability charity, the Children Today Charitable Trust.

Due to his condition, James is unable to ride a regular bike, but after expressing an interest in cycling, his family reached out for support for an adapted trike from the charity, with his new wheels providing James with the opportunity to be more independent and boosted his confidence.

Described by his mum Fionnuala as a “such a lovely wee lad”, James has cerebral palsy, which affects his mobility and speech. 

And when he expressed an interest in cycling, his family was determined to make it happen.

“Due to James’ condition he can be very unsteady on his feet and trip easily, so he has to be careful,” his mum explained.

“But he’s the sort of lad that wants to give anything a go. Of course, James is unable to ride a regular bike, so we started looking into specialist trikes. 

“At a cost of over £2,000 though, we knew it would take a long time to save up. We wanted him to experience the joy and freedom of cycling while he’s still young enough to enjoy it.”

Thanks to Children Today, who provided almost half the funding, James now has a specially adapted trike designed to meet his needs.

“Getting the trike has been great for James,” his mum revealed.

“As he’s getting older it’s good for him to be a bit more independent. James tires easily when walking, so having the trike means he can get out and about more easily, while getting regular exercise.”

Fionnuala said the family have been out lots on their bikes over the summer and James has also joined his uncle on bike rides.

And the trike is not only giving James greater mobility, but also boosting his self-confidence, helping him overcome shyness and enjoy a positive lift to his mental health.

His mum continued: “There are lots of things that James misses out on. He can’t really play ‘rough and tumble’ or join in with football with his friends, so he can often feel left out. 

“This trike has had such a positive impact on his confidence and mental health. People often stop us to ask about it, and it gives James a real sense of pride.”

Fionnuala added: “As James grows up, I’m sure in the not-too-distant future, it will also provide more opportunities for him to meet up with his friends and feel included.” 

When asked what he thinks about the trike, James said: “I absolutely love it and it’s much easier than walking.”

Children Today charity director, Emma Prescott, said it’s “absolutely delighted” to have been able to support James and his family.

“Stories like his really highlight the life-changing impact that adapted equipment can have – not just in terms of mobility, but in building confidence, independence, and precious memories with family and friends,” she said.

“Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’re able to help more children like James enjoy the freedom and opportunities every child deserves.”

The Children Today Charitable Trust was founded in 1994 and helps provide disabled children and young adults up to the age of 25 with support and specialist equipment such as walking aids, adapted trikes, specially adapted car seats and more.