THE Formula 1 world drivers' champion has donated memorabilia to a brave 11-year-old boy coping with a severe muscle-wasting disease.

Kimi Raikkonen sent a signed photograph to Danny Sanders, of Linnet Rise, Kidderminster, after hearing of the youngster's condition through Bewdley businessman David Hughes.

Mr Hughes delivered the picture, a second photo of the Finnish driver in his championship-winning Ferrari racing car, and a cap and T-shirt to Danny during a surprise visit.

Mr Hughes said: "When I gave Danny the photos and the hat and shirt he was surprised and really pleased.

"It's a great pleasure for me to be able to hand over these items on behalf of Kimi and be able to wish Danny a happy New Year.

"Danny's got a tough life ahead of him and although the initial idea was to auction the items off, we decided it would be nice if he could hang onto them."

The businessman, who manages Riverside Caravan Park in Bewdley, and runs talent agency, Academy Management Group, got the merchandise after contacting Raikkonen's manager, David Robertson, through a mutual friend.

Mr Hughes explained: "I couldn't believe it when Mr Robertson said Kimi would post these items through because he usually only gives to two charities in his native Finland."

Danny's mother, Megan, said: "Danny wouldn't let me take the T-shirt off him once he'd put it on.

"He didn't know much about racing before he got the photos but now he realises how big a thing it is and how famous Kimi Raikkonen is, so it's grabbed his interest."

Danny, who suffers with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, is also set to receive a life-changing special £12,500 wheelchair by the end of the month, already paid for with donations from generous Shuttle/Times & News readers, well-wishers and community groups.