A BOY with disabilities has had his dream come true - a replica Colin McRae rally car for the weekend.

Three-year-old Charlie Ridgewell, of Swinton, near Malton, along with his mum and dad, Heidi and Matt, have been loaned a high-performance Ford Focus.

The car, which has been loaned to the family by Polar Ford of York, is exactly the same as that driven by British rally champion.

"I couldn't believe it when they offered us the car for the weekend," said Heidi.

"I only emailed them to ask if I could have some stickers to decorate Charlie's bedroom."

For Charlie, who has suffered heart and lung problems since he was born prematurely, the weekend is set to be packed with exciting adventures.

"I honestly don't know why he's so obsessed with rally car racing," says Heidi.

"My husband had the Colin McRae racing computer game and Charlie liked watching.

"Then recently we went down to my mum's in Essex and Charlie saw Colin McRae's car on TV and got really excited.

"Since then he shouts every time he spots Ford Focus cars around town and he loves watching the rally car racing on the television."

Polar Ford delivered the car to the family's home yesterday, all the way from Brighton.

"We've been out in it already and it's just brilliant, it's got two bucket seats and it makes a lot of noise," said Heidi.

"Charlie was beside himself when it arrived, he just went really quiet and was shaking with excitement.

"My husband took us out for a drive in it and Charlie loved it. We're planning a few more trips before they take it back on Monday.

"We are so grateful to Polar Ford for doing this for him."

Updated: 11:07 Saturday, April 06, 2002