CHARLOTTE Nott and mum Jenny Daniels are both practising their running, but for very different reasons.

Since receiving her first set of special running blades a year ago this week, amputee Charlotte has developed a love of sport.

Now the six-year-old from Cowley can’t wait to get her next pair for an active summer.

The Horspath CofE Primary School pupil had the lower parts of her arms and legs amputated after contracting meningitis as a baby.

And her mum is embarking on a challenge of her own as she prepares to run across hot coals for a charity which helped Charlotte.

She aims to raise £250 for Charlbury’s SpecialEffect, a charity which helps people with disabilities to enjoy computer games through special equipment.

She said: “We don’t know if it will be running or swimming or throwing but Charlotte will definitely do something.

“We went bowling recently, and people were surprised that she is just as good as other children.

“She is naturally good at sport and games, she has really good co-ordination.”

As she grows, Charlotte needs new £6,000 blades and legs every three to six months. She is currently waiting for her next set.

With other care costs, the youngster – sister to Libby, one, and George, four – will need about £15,000-a-year for the rest of her life.

Miss Daniels, 32, said: “This is my first fundraiser, but I want to do a few different things.

“The last three years have been busy. I have focused on Charlotte’s recovery and all the things we have had going on, including fundraising for her.

“SpecialEffect just took us under their wing and we have made really good friends with them. They helped Charlotte to have fun.”

Miss Daniels also hopes to raise cash for Oxford Children’s Hospital, where Charlotte was treated, and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS).

Charlotte said: “I am really excited about watching mum do it, I’m sure she can make it.”

Oxford United players helped raise £8,000 for blades last year and others ran the Oxford Half Marathon to support Charlotte.

Oxford Mail:

  • Charlotte in the dugout at Oxford United's Kassam Stadium last July after being fitted with new blades

Other fundraisers will take on the hot coal challenge at Oxford City Football Club on Saturday at 8pm, including Tracy Dennell, landlady of The Seacourt Bridge, Botley, who is aiming to raise £700 for SpecialEffect.

The mother-of-three is also helping to organise a family fun day at The Seacourt Bridge in April in aid of the charity.

Other charities to benefit from the hot coal challenge will be Seesaw, Sobell House Hospice, Helen & Douglas House children’s hospice and spinal injuries charity Aspire.