THANKS to a wonderful invention, young Kim Randall's world has opened up.

For the first time in her life, she can use a sewing machine and her hopes of a career in textiles could be within reach.

Thirteen-year-old Kim was born with spina bifida and is confined to a wheelchair.

Until now, she has been unable to reach a pedal-operated sewing machine, so she had been prevented from taking a full part in textile technology classes.

Now, with her new remote-control box, worn on a Velcro strap on her arm, she has full use of a sewing machine for the first time.

A year 7 pupil at Downton School, Kim is benefiting from an invention that took eight years to develop.

By lightly pressing the control at her side, she can stop and start the sewing machine at will.

Now able to participate in the textile technology class, Kim has already been designing and making pieces such as a bright, appliqud cushion, and a pencil case with a beautifully inserted zip fastener.

Her teacher, Annette Vinall, who has been teaching textiles students at Downton for the past 12 years, said: "This little box is so wonderful.

"To see Kim's face when she first used it was marvellous."