A DIABETIC who had part of his foot amputated is using his love of public transport to give him a bit of get up and go.

John Gibson, 39, unknowingly developed type 1 diabetes 18 months ago but when his symptoms started to worsen he visited his doctor and received some shocking news.

The father-of-three was told he would have to have his big toe and part of his right foot removed as his poor circulation was stopping blood getting to them.

John, of Queens Road West, Accrington, said: "At one point I was sitting next to a boiling hot radiator and my feet still felt like blocks of ice so I knew something was wrong.

"When I was told I would need an amputation I was devastated. I own my own courier business and drive up and down the country but since the surgery that is out of the question."

Looking for something to fill his time, John began to collect photographs and postcards of old buses from Accrington. This then developed into visiting transport events where he could take his own photographs.

"I find buses really interesting, especially the way they have developed over the years," said John. "Having worked as a driver for so many years I recognise a lot of the old vehicles.

"I took the kids to see some buses in Blackburn, one of which was my old school bus. It gave me a great feeling of nostalgia but unfortunately they weren't quite so keen!"

He added: "It has been very therapeutic for me, especially on days when I have not been able to leave the house. I've had four operations on my foot. If I didn't have the last one I would have probably have lost my whole leg."

John currently uses a walking stick to help him get about. He said: "It is too early to say if I will be able to walk unaided. The skin on my foot is paper thin and they have said it will take about 12 months to harden up.

"I am hoping that I can get a bus pass so I can go a bit further afield and photograph buses in Preston. That will help me to get a broader collection of Lancashire buses."

John is now looking for images of vehicles owned by Ironfields Transport of Clayton-le-Moors and Higams Transport and Jack Bradleys Transport, both of Accrington, to boost his collection.

Anyone with relevant photos or postcards is asked to contact John at john_gibson1@btinternet.com.