A KIDDERMINSTER man with a rare brain condition who could have just weeks to live was given an emotional festive treat four months early.

Family and friends of Christmas-loving Henry Smith organised a party and a visit from Santa on his sleigh at his Kidderminster home.

Mr Smith, who is 22, was born with the condition microcephaly and also suffers from epilepsy. When he was born, doctors told his parents Tony and Diane Smith that Henry would probably only live until he was two.

But the family has been delivered devastating news that Henry, who has three sisters Ruby, Samantha and Sammy Jo, could die within weeks because of a heart condition that has developed in recent months.

Mrs Smith said family and friends rallied round to help them organise the party to allow Henry to enjoy his favourite part of the year one more time.

She said: “Henry had the best time. He loves Christmas and he really enjoyed the visit from Santa and getting to ride on the sleigh around the estate.

“During the morning, he was unwell and we had to give him pain relief. But he was able to enjoy the party and get his presents off Santa. Lots of family and friends were there, we put up decorations and we had a DJ come and play for us – it was a real party.

“It’s been an emotional time and we are struggling with the news. When he was born, doctors told us he wouldn’t live past two but he is a fighter.

“And through the love and support of the whole family, we have kept him going and he has lived to be one of the oldest people with the condition.

“He has expressed one more wish and that is to ride on a horse and carriage. He isn’t well enough at the moment and is on oxygen but I hope he will get stronger and I hope we can do one more surprise for him.”

She added: “I want to thank everyone who have been so supportive, especially my friend Cathy Court who has been with me all the way through and continues to be a rock.

“We have also received a lot of help and support from Kemp Hospice, in particular Anne Randall, who have been amazing. We can’t thank everyone enough.”