Boys are going the full distance in charity effort
YOUNGSTERS’ FUND-RAISING FOR NHS IS OVER £2,200
A GROUP of young friends are nearing the end of a charity challenge which they started in memory of two of their pals’ grandparents.
The children, all from St Bartholomew’s Primary in Quorn, have been walking, running or biking a mile every day in March in memory of Quindlen and Caelan Brennan’s late great-grandparents.
The challenge, called March in March, will see each of the group complete 31 miles by the end of the month.
They are doing it for NHS Charities Together and collectively have raised more than £2,200 so far.
Gemma Hobbs, the mum of one of the boys taking part, said the challenge was the latest way the group of youngsters were supporting each other in a year disrupted by lockdowns and Covid restrictions.
“This lovely little gang decided to support one another over lockdown via their dads’ WhatsApp group,” said Gemma.
“It was their way of communicating while a number of them were being homeschooled.
“They are a constant power of support to each other and during such uncertain times, and it’s heartwarming to see their friendship being put to such good use.”
The challenge was the idea of Quindlen and Caelan, and then gathered momentum when Gemma’s son Maxwell wanted to do more than merely sponsor his friends.
“Maxwell decided to sponsor Quinn but also wanted to support him and said he would help him with his miles, which started all the boys off on this little fund-raising mission,” she said. “Boys being boys, they have decided to stick together and make a joint effort in raising money for the NHS.
“It’s a beautiful idea by a group of eight-year-old boys, trying to make an act of kindness beneficial to others. A group of friends now on the mission to raise money for the NHS.”
The children will be running their last mile together on March 31 on the track at Loughborough University.
The parents have organised medals to hand out, while a large cheque for the NHS will also be filled in with the final total.
The deputy head at St Bartholomew’s Primary, Sonya Campbell, will be joining the boys for their last mile.
If you would like to sponsor the boys, you can access Maxwell’s fund-raising page by searching “Gemma Hobbs” and going to the 31 Miles in 31 Days section at: