A TERMINALLY-ill boy who was not expected to live beyond the age of two, confounded doctors’ predictions when he started nursery.

Three-year-old Kyle Lord, of Haywood Road, Accrington, was born with type one spinal muscular atrophy, a genetic disease which has left him unable to walk or sit unaided.

He cannot hold up his head and also has serious chest problems.

Throughout his life doctors have said he would be unlikely to see this third birthday, so it was an amazing feat for him to start Fairfield Children’s Centre, in Fairfield Street, Accrington, on Wednesday.

Children born with the condition, which leaves babies floppy and unable to suckle, are only given a 20 per cent chance of surviving past two-years-old.

Kyle’s devoted mum Paula Butterworth said: "I am really nervous about him going to nursery. After everything the doctors said I never thought we would be in this position. He is so excited about going, but I can’t help feeling apprehensive, as he will be around children of normal ability.

"I am relieved he is getting the opportunity to mix with more children his age, but I guess it will take a little bit of time for him to get used to them and for them to get used to him.

"He is so excited about starting nursery. Every time we go past he shouts ‘there’s my school’."

Football-mad Kyle is very close to his sister Bethany, five, and cousin Sophie, two.

Before starting nursery this week Kyle had been attending Holly House Respite Centre at the Acorn Health Centre, Accrington.

Paula added: "The whole family is really proud of Kyle, he really is a determined little boy. He has had absolutely no worries about starting nursery. I think I have had them all for him.

"He just can’t wait to make new friends, which is lovely to see."

Kyle celebrated his first day at nursery with a tea party at home.

As well as his mum and sister Bethany, his dad Paul also joined in the fun.

Kyle’s parents are currently looking at his option for starting school next September.

They hope with the help of full-time help from a support worker he will be able to join mainstream education at Peel Park Primary School, Accrington.