A WIRRAL teenager is gearing up to take part in The One Show's Rickshaw Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

Luke, 17, was born with cerebral palsy and was selected for the challenge following his involvement with Wirral charity Stick 'n' Step.

At 11 Luke endured complicated leg surgery to help his long term ability to walk, what followed was painful rehabilitation.

He also had to re-learn how to walk and balance again.

Despite all of this the 17-year-old has persevered never letting the condition stand in the way of leading a full and active life.

Now Luke uses a wheelchair but can walk a short distance with crutches.

He will join five other young riders on the Rickshaw challenge by pedalling 500 miles from The One Show studio in London to the River Clyde in Glasgow all to raise cash for BBC Children in Need.

Embarking on Thursday, November 9 the riders will work their way across the UK in a bid to cross the finish line on Friday, November 17 during BBC Children in Need’s 2017 Appeal Show.

Television host Matt Baker will also join the crew offering support and advice throughout the journey while co-presenter Alex Jones follows their moves from the studio.

Luke has attended Stick 'n' Step since the age of two and his family credit the project providing conductive education and practical support with helping to increase his self-confidence and change his outlook on life with a disability.

Luke said: “One of the biggest things I’ve taken away from my time at Stick ‘n’ Step is that there are so many ways to accomplish your goals – whether it’s learning a different way to cut your food or dress yourself in the morning – and all it takes is changing your attitude and focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t.

"I want to make sure that other children in my position have the same opportunities, and raising money for BBC Children in Need can help ensure that.

"My hope is that everyone watching the Rickshaw Challenge and seeing my story will see what great things are possible with a bit of support.”

Chief executive at Stick ‘n’ Step Amy Couture said: “We're so excited that Luke has been picked to take part in The One Show’s Rickshaw Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

"Luke has been coming to Stick ‘n’ Step for over 14 years, and during that time we have seen him grow in confidence and ability.

"We feel very proud of everything he has already achieved.

"Luke's prepared for the challenge to be tough and we can’t wait to cheer him on.”

In the seven years Rickshaw Challenge has raised more than £16million for BBC Children in Need.

In 2017 the public can join in by taking on their own virtual rickshaw challenge.

For more information and to set up a fundraising page visit bbc.co.uk/Pudsey