NUMBER TEN Downing Street is getting a special visitor from Gwent - and he'll help bring in Christmas for the Blairs.

Ryan Escott, ten, of Bronawellon Terrace, Crumlin, suffers from cerebral palsy, and is one of a group of children from South Wales invited to turn on the Christmas lights at the famous address.

Mum Kerry Escott said: "Ryan was born 12 weeks premature as a twin. I lost his twin, and he was diagnosed at 12 months with cerebral palsy.

"A few years ago he started at Craig-y-Parc school, in Cardiff. He's in a wheelchair at all times, but he's very, very bright, and he can use his arms. But he's really improved since he started there. He's a great communicator - he's got really good speech now."

Five youngsters from Ryan's school are going with Scope to Downing Street, along with several other children from the region. They were travelling up today for tomorrow's party and will be met by Cherie Blair, then switch on the lights after a special party.

"They've been chosen because of what they've achieved in school," Mrs Escott said.

Ryan's father, Mark, added: "He heard about it back in September and we were gobsmacked.

"Ryan's over the moon. It was all a bit much for him in the beginning, but now he's really looking forward to the occasion."