A DISABLED teenager has been pledged thousands of pounds from supporters backing her ambition to swim for Britain at the 2004 Paralympics.

When competitors get under starter's orders in the event in Athens, Kimberley Bailey wants to be among the champions. The 16-year-old from Rochester Close in Durrington has already made it into the England team and now her aim is to earn a place on the plane to Greece in two years.

The Argus reported in March how she won six gold medals at the BT National Junior Championships, the top British competition for disabled swimmers.

Miracles, an East Preston-based charity, is sponsoring Kimberley, with at least £13,000 raised so far.

When Kimberley, a pupil at the Angmering School, was born with a curvature of the spine, dislocated hips, a wasted left leg, club feet, a cleft palate and fused ribs, doctors doubted she would survive.

However, 15 operations and a lot of hard work later, she is striving towards her dream.

Miracles can be contacted on 01903 775673.