A young Rotherham boy has raised over £300 for vital support for children and young people with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions from across the region.

Joseph Castelbranco, aged just seven-years-old took part in a triathlon to raise much-needed funds for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Sporty Joseph, who dashed into first place in the event as well as supporting the hospice, took on the challenge as he loves triathlon events, and is hoping to represent England one day.  His idols are the Brownlee brothers and Sir Mo Farah.

Joseph said: “I wanted to raise money for Bluebell Wood because I wanted to help children. I felt for them and wanted to help make them smile. I really enjoyed the running. The hardest part was the swimming as I haven’t swum much in the last two years because of COVID closing the pools.”

Joseph’s mum, Jeanette, added: I'm super proud of Joseph’s athletic achievements but more than that, his genuine compassion to help others. He’s not stopping with just one triathlon and has planned a hundred-mile cycle ride for his next charity challenge.”

Eleanor Hughes, Regional Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Joseph for his amazing efforts, and at such a young age.  Joseph really is an inspiring fundraiser.

“Thanks to his support and generosity, we can continue to be there for local children and families going through some of the toughest times imaginable.”