Hopes have been raised that new genetic treatment could help a woman whose legs will not stop growing.

Mandy Sellars, 38, has suffered from the condition which has caused her legs to weigh an estimated 17 stone.

It was thought Huncoat resident Mandy had a form of Proteus Syndrome – the condition  from which Joseph Merrick who became known as the Elephant Man suffered.

She had her left leg amputated three years ago – but doctors were shocked when it started to grow again.

However a leading geneticist at Cambridge University was able to isolate the gene believed to cause the problem.

Mandy, of Bolton Avenue, is hopeful the discovery will possibly stop her legs from growing.

She said: “The doctor in Cambridge that found the gene said it was something they have never seen before. It’s an incredible discovery.

“It’s not something I ever thought we would find in my lifetime.

“I just kind of accepted it would get worse and keep growing but I am more optimistic following the discovery.”

The discovery is documented in a new TV programme about Mandy’s life to be shown on Channel 5 next week.

Mandy has started gene therapy treatment and is hopeful it will have a positive effect on her condition.

Mandy said: “Since I had the amputation in 2010 it has grown a lot. I know at one point the stump was a metre in circumference.”

Doctors had hoped to fit her with a prosthetic leg but as her stump kept growing, new legs had to be made and to date she is still unable to walk.

Mandy said: “I am house-bound during the week. I need help to walk to get to my car and get me into my wheelchair.

“I probably have the cleanest flat in Huncoat because I’m at home all the time.

“But my friends and family can help at weekends and I am lucky to have the support I do.”

Extraordinary People airs on Monday, February 18 on Channel 5 at 9pm.