SEVEN-year-old schoolboy Oliver Proctor suffers from a rare form of arthritis and is often in pain, but his own problems don't stop him thinking of others.

Oliver read the Daily Echo's story about wheelchair-user Lee Steege whose pet rabbits were hideously killed by intruders who broke into his family's garden in Millbrook, Southampton.

The pupil from Eling Junior School, near Totton, instantly decided to make Lee a present of two of his own baby rabbits, born six weeks ago to his English Lops Jack and Georgina.

Oliver's dad Dave said it was a typical reaction from his son, who only turned seven last week.

"As soon as Olly heard the story he told me to phone up and offer the babies. He's got two left from the litter of six," said Dave, at home in The Crescent, Marchwood.

"Olly is one of those really soft souls who always want to help others. He's going into hospital on Monday for treatment for Still's Disease, which is a rare form of arthritis which causes high temperatures and swollen joints.

"It's not a curable condition and he has to have regular blood samples taken and take lots of tablets to control the condition. But he has a wonderful understanding when other people are hurt."

The Daily Echo has been inundated with calls of support for Lee from all over the UK.

Adam and Marianne Champion of Beaver Drive, Bishopstoke and Chris Davis of charity Southampton City and Region Action to Combat Hardship (SCRATCH) also wanted to offer Lee more rabbits.

A Sheffield company Jenx, who make furniture for people with disabilities, said they would like to send £100 to the youngster.

Machine shop supervisor Kevin Abbot said staff donate money to a charity of their choice from profits made on the crisps and chocolate they buy at work.

He said: "I know this isn't a charity but because of the product we make and what's happened to the lad we thought we would give it to him."

Lee's mum Karen, of Evenlode Road, Millbrook, said: "I can't believe it. I only wanted it to be made public so other people could be aware of what happened and keep their pets safe. I'd just like to say a really big 'thank you'."