FACTORY pals are rallying to make life easier for a bubbly teenager facing life in a wheelchair.

Nine members of the Arquest nappy firm on Greenfield Business Park will slog their way to the top of Snowdon to launch the appeal fund today.

They will be led on the sponsored trek by quality controller Lynne Edwards who is battling to ensure a brighter future for her daughter.

Kimberley is only 14, but the clock is ticking ­ she was born with crippling Friedreich's Ataxia and is already losing co-ordination and having trouble walking.

'Doctors only diagnosed the condition three years ago and Kimberley will probably be in a wheelchair soon,' said Lynne.

Dependable sources ­ pubs, clubs, sports teams, shops, factories, offices and community charity groups ­ are once again being asked for their support.

Lynne has been employed at Arquest for the past 12 years. Her husband Richie joined the workforce as a machine operator a year later.

The couple have been together for 15 years and are paying off a £47,000 mortgage while caring for Kimberley, her sister Samantha, nine, and brother Kane, three.

But family hopes of adapting their three-bedroom, semi-detached home at Maes Emlyn in Penyffordd, near Holywell, have suffered a setback.

'We need £12,600 to modify the house and provide stairlifts, handrails, shower unit, bedroom fittings and other aids for Kimberley as her condition worsens,' said Lynne.

'But our application to Flintshire social services has been turned down. We were told we are not eligible because we are both working and earning.

'The impression we got was that money would have been available if we were both on the dole and claiming benefits.

'Obviously we feel let down but are delighted our workmates, families, friends and neighbours are supporting us in our efforts to help Kimberley.' The plucky youngster remains bright and cheerful despite being fully aware of her deteriorating condition and says all she wants for her 15th birthday next month is the chance to lead a normal life.

Kimberley is looking forward to sitting her GCSEs at Prestatyn High School next year. Her brother Kane is still in nursery but will be joining Samantha on the Ysgol Bryn Garth school register soon.

Flintshire County Council says it cannot comment on individual cases nor can it confirm or deny that an application from the family was made, received or rejected by its social  services department.