Alyx’s pedal power raises £500 for zoo
A schoolgirl is following in the tracks of her pal by cycling 50 miles to raise money for a much-loved zoo.
Five- year- old Alyx McHarg heard about the sponsored challenge her friend Annabelle Muir did by cycling 7km every day for seven days.
Kirklandneuk Primary P2 Annabelle raised more than £1,200 for the Five Sisters Zoo with her efforts – and Alyx said she wanted to do something to help.
Together with her parents Jillian and Robert, she’s cycling five miles from her Paisley home every day this week in a bid to raise £500.
But the West Primary pupil has already smashed her target and is enjoying the cycling so far.
Jillian said: “Annabelle had asked for sponsorship to help the zoo and Alyx said she wanted to do something to help as well.
“We’ve been to the zoo quite a few times but I don’t think anyone knew it was struggling. She was really looking forward to taking her wee brother Evyn, who’s one, for the first time this year.
“Alyx just learned to cycle without stabilisers at the end of March so that’s been one good thing to come out of lockdown!
“She’s been delighted with herself and has been asking constantly to go to the cycle path. We thought this would be a good challenge for her and worked out that 50 miles was the equivalent of our house to the zoo.”
Jillian told the school who have supported Alyx and posted her challenge on its Facebook page.
“An amazing number of people posted and supported Alyx,” said Jillian. “Her friends were leaving messages so she was raring to go. She’s doing really well, she’s already raised more than her £500 target.
“She’s very proud of herself, as she should be. Both girls have done a fabulous thing.”
West Primary said on Facebook: “Alyx is one of our Primary 1 children and she has chosen to help save the Five Sisters Zoo from closure, by aiming to cycle 50 miles in five days.
“50 miles is a long way and Alyx only learned to cycle her bike without stabilisers a few months ago and has been pedalling her little legs off ever since. Good luck Alyx.”
Adele Copland from Five Sisters Zoo said: “Well done Alyx! What an amazing gesture and great achievement to cycle 50 miles.
“We greatly appreciate the support.”
To support Alyx’s fundraising, go to www. justgiving. com/ crowdfunding/alyxmcharg