A BRAVE Letton teenager who has undergone 18 major heart operations will have more independence than ever before, thanks to “life-changing” battery-assisted trike.

Bede Widdicombe, 15, is one of just nine youngsters worldwide who have a rare heart condition which restricts him from walking anything more than a short distance.

This had meant that Bede has relied on friends and family to push him around in a buggy when he went out – however the high-tech £2,500 trike presented to him by the Hereford and Kington Lions clubs will allow to get out and about on his own.

His mum, Kathy, said: “This is a life changer for Bede.

“He will now be able to get around under his own steam, and to enjoy bike rides with his 13-year-old sister, Aine, and with family and friends. It really is a wonderful gift.”

The machine, built in Italy, is designed so it can be folded into a car boot, and Colin Smith, vice president of Hereford Lions Club, said it was a privilege to help give Bede some extra independence.

Mick Rowlatt, president of the Kington group, said: “Seeing the big smile on his face when we gave him the machine, and his joy when he took it for his first ride, were very special moments.”