LITTLE Hannah Ridout could soon be sporting a life-like leg - thanks to Hampshire's football and cricket stars.

Saints and the county cricket team have rallied round to help the four-year-old girl reach her dream of receiving a realistic artificial limb.

Hannah's leg was amputated at birth and she has suffered ill-fitting limbs all her life.

Her mother Sally Doughty, 31, has already raised £2,900 - enough money for one privately-made leg - as part of a £5,400 appeal for the limb and a replacement as Hannah grows.

Southampton FC's squad have signed a replica shirt and Hampshire cricketers have put their names to a bat which Sally, of Alderney Close, Lordshill, Southampton, is putting up for auction to the highest bidder.

She said: "I burst into tears when I heard what the Saints and the cricket club were doing for Hannah.

"I can't believe the support I have received and I have so many people to thank.

"I have been told not to accept any bids below three figures and hopefully both items will go for a lot of money because they will certainly be valuable to any fan."

Sally said many people who had collected money for Hannah had volunteered without her knowledge.

"The Tudor pub in Shirley Warren has raised £300 by asking customers to donate money in a jar on the bar - and I have never been in the pub.

"The Kings Arms in Shirley is also collecting funds that way and the Shirley Hotel will raise money as well," she said.

Sally raised more than £1,000 when her head was shaved as part of the appeal.

Anyone who wants to bid for the shirt can ring her any day between 4pm and 8pm before the end of the month on 07990 711519.

Donations can be made direct to Hannah's Dream Account, number 00209180 at the Halifax, sort code 11-06-97.

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