A big-hearted Mansfield boy celebrated his 10^th birthday in style by taking on an epic running challenge for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Lennon Scott, from Mansfield Woodhouse, has been pounding the pavements alongside his mum Emma throughout January to hit his 25 mile target.

The Northfield Primary and Nursery School student turned 10 on New Year’s Eve, and, after taking inspiration from a YouTube star who donated presents to a children’s hospital, he decided he wanted to do something to help others in January.

“After he told me about the YouTuber I suggested to him that he could do something to help other children too,” said mum Emma Scott.  

“Like most children, Lennon’s struggled at times this past year so I think doing something that would benefit other children really appealed to him.

“So I spoke to my friend who works in a children’s ward and she suggested various charities, and between us we decided Bluebell Wood would be the perfect cause to support.”

With the running total now standing at £500, Lennon and his family have been blown away by the support they’ve received.

“It’s just so overwhelming – we never expected to raise as much as we have,” Emma added.

“Lennon’s taken to the challenge so well and we can’t stop telling him how proud we are.

“We don’t need to motivate him at all – I think knowing where the money is going is keeping him going. It’s such an achievement and we’d like to thank everyone who’s supported Lennon in his challenge for the generosity.”

The gruelling challenge comes at a time when much of Bluebell Wood’s planned fundraising activity has been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic.

Mel Rose, Regional Fundraiser for Bluebell Wood, said: “Lennon really is an inspiration and I can’t thank him enough for supporting Bluebell Wood.

“It’s been fantastic to receive regular updates on his progress and I’ve very much enjoyed being a part of his fundraising journey

“Here at Bluebell Wood we rely on our amazing fundraisers so we can be there for local children and families when they need us the most, so he should be incredibly proud of what he’s achieved.

“A huge thank you to Lennon, his family and everyone who has supported his challenge for going above and beyond for Bluebell Wood.”