LIKE many other boys his age, adventure-loving Enzo-Ty Wilkinson dreams of becoming a fireman and performing on stage with rock band ACDC.

The sky is seemingly the limit for the popular St Columbas Primary School pupil who celebrated his tenth birthday this week with a party at his home on Walney and the present at the top of his wish list; an electronic quad bike.

His birthday is even more special for his family as it marks a decade since they were told he had Down's Syndrome - a condition medics claimed would limit both his progress and enjoyment of life.

But proud mum Kerry Wilkinson, 30, says her little boy's happiness and enthusiasm is infectious, adding she wouldn't change him 'for the world'.

"If there was a magic pill that would make Enzo 'normal' tomorrow I wouldn't want it. He's absolutely perfect.

"You only need to be around him for five minutes for some of his joy to brighten your day.

"He's outgoing, happy and sees the best in things. 

"All I heard when he was born were the negatives about Down's Syndrome, but were were determined it would never stop him from trying things like any other child."

Enzo-Ty, who is now in Year 5 at school, plays the drums and sings weekly at South Lakes Rock School, in Barrow's Victoria Road, - and has taken to the stage to appear in two shows with the group since joining.

He also loves trampolining, canoeing, football and swimming - activities he has done through the Oaklea Trust and Barrow Borough Sports Council during the school holidays - and he takes his responsibilities as a big brother very seriously, looking out for his little sister Faith, aged three, Mrs Wilkinson adds.

Mrs Wilkinson, who works full time running her own beauty business on Walney and is married to Barrow fireman Michael Wilkinson, credits the support Enzo has received from a variety of people and organisations over the last ten years for boosting his confidence and achievements.

When he was diagnosed as having Down Syndrome aged just seven days old, his newly single mum, then just 20, did not know what it would mean for his future.

But she now advises new parents of babies born with the genetic condition to keep an open mind and enjoy everything life has to offer.

She said: "All I knew when he was born was that Enzo needed me to be the best parent I could be.

"We've never mollycoddled him and we push his independence.

"We've had amazing support from family and friends, his school and lots of other people who have helped him along the way.

"But he really is an absolute gift. We wouldn't change him for the world."