Gosport teenagers raising thousands for the NHS as they run 1,050km during lockdown extension
EXTENDED lockdown has spurred on a group of 10 teenagers to raise vital funds for the NHS by running 1,050km in the additional three weeks.
A group of Gosport 15-year-olds consisting of Alex Brewer, Ben Webb, Fin Shields, Jake Parker, Jake Wright, Noah Meysen, Sam Clarke, Taylor Edwards, Zak Ware and Harrison Brenchley have decided to commit to a big fundraising challenge as a team.
The Year 10 students from Bay House School are each running 5km a day for 21 days, aiming to raise as much as possible to support NHS staff and volunteers.
Harrison, who came up with the idea with his dad, said: ‘It all started because we had the extension on lockdown. We don’t want to just sit around and play Xbox and do homework so we want to do something good for the country.
‘People are dying at any age so we wanted to support the NHS. The NHS workers are working day and night to help people, the whole country is coming together to help people.’
Despite an initial ambitious target of £1,000, the group has already raised more than £2,500 over the first few days of the challenge thanks to the generous support of their teachers, family and friends.
Harrison added: ‘At the start of it we didn’t think we would get very much money. I think it’s really good because it’ll support the NHS and hopefully bring some good to the world.
‘We just thought it would be our families but we have got neighbours, teachers, parents, friends donating. We’re hoping to just keep raising the total.’
The group has been working hard to complete the challenge each day, heading out early in the morning or late in the evening to dodge the heat, and although reaching the total will be tough, they feel it’s achievable.
Faye Riggs, mum of Jake Parker, said: ‘They just really wanted to make a difference but this has gone beyond all of their expectations. It’s a really positive thing for them to look back on and reflect on.
‘It’s just wonderful, I couldn’t be prouder. All of them have been friends for a long time, they’re like family really.’
To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/lockdown1000.