A TERMINALLY-ill five-year-old boy and his family will visit Santa in Lapland thanks to a generous local businessman.

Poole Speedway owner and promoter Matt Ford came forward after an appeal was launched in the Daily Echo to make little David’s last months as happy as possible.

“The offer is absolutely incredible and the family are delighted,” said friend Graham Hadfield. “The family has no links to Mr Ford – he just made the offer out of kindness.”

David was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour in September and is currently undergoing intensive radiotherapy treatment in the hope he will be able to live as a healthy child for around two months. After that, doctors have given little hope.

David’s Wishlist, featured in the Echo, has attracted dozens of offers of help and many of the youngster’s wishes have been granted, including a family trip to Disneyland Paris in January.

There are numerous fund raising events planned and members of the public have also made financial donations.

The family is still looking for a venue for a private Christmas lunch for 10 adults and seven children.

Anyone who wishes to help in any way has been urged to do so through The Red Ranger Fund, set up by the family. Details are available at theredrangerfund.co.uk.

“It would be helpful if people contacted us before they did any fund raising so we know what’s going on,” added Mr Hadfield.

* David’s name has been changed at the request of his family.