PROM night is considered a milestone for many teenagers. But it was a miracle 16-year-old John Hindle was ever able to attend.

For John was born three months prematurely on 26 October 1991 weighing just two pounds – less than a bag of sugar.

He spent his first few weeks fighting for life in hospital with his anxious mum and dad Janet and Trevor by his side, and had to overcome several infections.

He also developed cerebral palsy as a youngster and has spent much of his life in a wheelchair.

But his fighting qualities shone through as he grew stronger and became a popular pupil at St Christopher’s High School, Accrington.

He assumed he would travel to the school prom at Mytton Fold Hotel in the family van which can accommodate his wheelchair.

So he was shocked when family friend Ginio Ferrari, owner of Ferrari’s Country House and Restaurant in Longridge, drove up to his home in Church Street, Clayton-le-Moors, in a red Ferrari sports car

His mum said: "Ginio took him in the car so all his friends could see and we followed him in our van with the chair.

"His prom was over a week ago and he is still talking about it."

John, who has a sister Samantha, 13, will be attending Blackburn College this autumn when he will begin a foundation course. He hopes to one day work in sports.

HIs mum said he was eager for the college term to start. She added: "He doesn’t like being stuck at home and he wants to see his friends. He enjoys socialising and had a brilliant time at the prom."

John is an avid football fan and enjoys playing pool.

Janet said: "He is a real fighter and has always had to be. The prom was a big deal to all of us and we want to thank Ginio for his gift."