A big-hearted Chesterfield schoolgirl has pledged half her earnings from a lockdown scrunchie-making enterprise to Bluebell Wood after soaring demand left her with more money than she could spend.

Twelve-year-old Lucy Kelley began making scrunchies in lockdown after her mum dusted off their old sewing machine. 

Quickly getting the hang of it, the Tupton Hall student decided to sell a few online to make a bit of extra pocket money. People were that impressed with the quality, she was soon inundated with orders.

“We started off just selling them to family and friends, but then lots of people shared her page on Facebook and we were flooded with orders before we knew it,” said proud mum Sarah Kelley, 40.

“It was then that Lucy said she didn’t need all the money for herself, and she wanted to give some to charity”.

“Straight away she suggested Bluebell Wood, and after doing some research about the charity’s brilliant work, it was settled”.

“She just wanted to help, but we had no idea it would go so crazy.”

So far Lucy has made 139 scrunchies, with five bespoke headbands for good measure. And she’s managed to fit it all around her school work.

“Although she’s not been in school since March, they have been sending work every day so it’s been a really nice break away from it all, and she’s also found it very relaxing,” Sarah added.

With each scrunchie selling for £1-£1.50, Lucy made a whopping £240, pledging half to Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice to help support local children and families.

“I’ve really enjoyed doing it and I’m very happy that I’ve been able to do something for Bluebell Wood,” said Lucy.

“I think it’s amazing what they do for children and I really wanted to help.”

Sally Baker, Community Fundraising Manager at Bluebell Wood, said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to Lucy for what’s she done for Bluebell Wood, it really is inspirational.

“The scrunchies and headbands are fabulous and she should be very proud of what she’s achieved.

“Her support will help us be there for families at a time when they need our help more than ever.”

To find out how you can help Bluebell Wood support local families, click here