Pedal power helps charity’s festive appeal
IN what has been a difficult year for a lot of families, there are always those who show us it’s not all bad. Times of great struggle also bring the strongest sense of community and giving, and that’s certainly the case for two very young and very cute Cheltenham best friends.
Amelie Weeden and Emily O’keefe, both six years old, are each cycling more than 60 miles throughout November to raise money to buy Christmas presents for families in Cheltenham, which will be distributed by the Cheltenham Foodbank.
The idea came from a post that the foodbank put out to ask for Christmas stocking presents and chickens for Cheltenham families this Christmas.
So far the pair have done their first ride of four and a half miles and cannot wait to complete the rest.
At the time of publication, the pair had raised more than £1,200 of their £1,500 target.
Emily’s parents James and Laura said: “We are really pleased the girls want to help those who are struggling at this time of year, especially at the moment, where many more are out of work or on reduced incomes.
“We think cycling is a good way for them to raise money whilst having fun and getting some exercise. It’s also something which has been encouraged during the pandemic.”
Amelie’s mum and dad Nicole Archer and Michael Weeden added: “We think its important the girls are aware of how lucky they are, and understand people are in all different situations and to be kind is the right way to be in life.
“You never know when you could be in that situation and need support.”
To donate visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ameliewandemilyo