They were not expected to live long - now these amazing Hartlepool brothers are tackling a 25k bike ride for charity

But look at the boys today. They are now 9 and 13 years old and love defying the odds.

James, 13, and Harry, 9, both have a rare genetic condition called MASA syndrome which is a neurological disorder. Both boys have wheelchairs, they both wear splints and adapted shoes as well as special suits for their posture.

But nothing is stopping them from cycling 25k in seven days around Hartlepool to raise money so the Hartlepool Carers and the PFC Trust can buy a caravan.

The aim of their bike ride – which starts on Monday, March 22 - is to help young people and carers get a break from their caring role.

The boys smashed their original £500 fundraising target and have now topped £1,000 in donations.

They are already in training for their big day. Mum Christine and dad Gavin, 39, will be there to give support as James and Harry tackle their assisted ride over seven days.

Proud mum Christine, 37, said: “I am really excited. For them to do this is amazing.”

Christine admitted to ‘getting emotional’ when she saw how much the boys had raised already, especially after their incredible health battles.

“We were told they would never walk, talk, never have an understanding of the world around them, and would not live very long,” said Christine who is also chief executive of Hartlepool Carers as well as being an ultra-proud mum.

At one stage, James had a staggering 18 professionals involved in his care.

The Hartlepool Mail first told of his story when he was a mere three years old. He spearheaded a Hartlepool Mail campaign that raised more than £10,000 to buy six adapted bikes for the self-funded Parents and Children Together (PACT) group.

His cheerful personality galvanised the Hartlepool public who took James to their hearts and money flooded in for the appeal.

The, against all the odds, James showed his courage once more when he took his first steps.

Inspirational James became a winner of the Child of Courage category at the annual Best of Hartlepool community awards in 2011.

Mum said at the time: “He is an amazing child and we are so, so proud of him.

"He has been through it all with a smile on his face and has even managed to keep us going through some difficult times.”

Years later, Harry was diagnosed with the same condition as James.

Yet despite their condition, the Hartlepool brothers will get through next month’s cycling challenge together, said Christine. “They like to spur each other on.”

Christine would love more people to support the bike ride challenge with donations and backing, and said: “I am hoping they will see how much of a challenge it is for them and get behind them.

"We are so grateful to everyone who has donated so far.”

To support the boys on their charity challenge, click here.

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