A PLUCKY teenager born with hand deformities has become the inspiration behind a new charity support group.

Mikey Knight, 14, was born with just one digit on his right arm and three fingers on his left.

A series of operations when he was a younger created two fingers on each hand.

Mum Marion, of Great Clacton, said: “One finger was stuck to another finger.

“Mikey made the decision to have it amputated. It was the best decision because it gave him a wider opening in his hands so he could grip more.”

The youngster’s legs also grew to different lengths.

Arsenal-mad Mikey is desperate to hit the sports field again after an operation in September to lengthen his right leg by more than an inch.

He is now back at Tendring Technology College in a wheelchair and his leg is held in a special frame.

Essex charity Wipe Away Those Tears got Mikey an iPad so he could keep up with his schoolwork.

Marion said: “He was off for about six weeks in Year Nine, which is an important year when you choose your GCSEs.

“That’s why it was so important to keep up his education and he is grateful for the iPad because he didn’t want to fall behind.”

Former Gunnerette Marion has been staging fundraising football matches with the Arsenal Charity Team for almost a decade.

Now Marion, of High View Avenue, and friend Natalie Devaux have launched Essex Hands to organise similar events and support for charities, with every penny going to the good causes.

Mikey’s hands even feature in the new organisation’s logo.

Marion, who works for Tendring Careline, said: “I just love my job and helping people – it stems from that.

“I want Mikey to be an independent, educated, well-balanced young man and if I can help anyone else in the process, then I will.”

  • The Arsenal Charity Team play Essex Hands United at a family fun day for Wipe Away Those Tears at FC Clacton on May 17, kicking off at 1pm.

Gates open at 10.30am and there will be inflatables, face painting and a performance by the X Factor’s Lydia Lucy.

Tickets cost £5 in advance (£3 children, £15 family) at essexhands.co.uk.