A nature-loving six-year-old has completed a month-long fundraiser after being inspired by a TV legend.
Arthur-John McKenzie, who is affectionately known as AJ, has raised £500 for the World Wide Fund for Nature by cycling 50 miles throughout February.
The St Katherine’s Church of England Primary School pupil has been watching a host of nature series narrated by Sir David Attenborough throughout the coronavirus pandemic and has been emotional after seeing what our planet could look like in the future.
Kelly McKenzie, AJ’s mum, is proud to have seen her son take action by committing to his own fundraiser.
She said: “AJ has been such a little star throughout lockdown and he has been so interested in Sir David Attenborough’s series.
“He gets really upset when Sir David talks about what the world could be like in years to come.
“AJ asked whether there was anything he could do to help, so I suggested a challenge on his bike.
“From that, he decided to ride 50 miles for WWF.
“I’m over the moon with him and he was so determined throughout.
“Now he has completed that challenge, he wants to take on another fundraiser.”
Read more:
- Southend family closing in on walking 250 miles for Parkinson's UK
- Langdon Hills youngsters raise more than £1k ahead of run in great grandad's memory
Kelly, of Canvey, took on the 50-mile challenge alongside AJ and they were supported by members of the community along the way.
She added: “People were cheering him on along the seafront and it was fantastic.
“When I agreed to AJ doing the fundraiser, I forgot I would have to go along with him.
“But he spurred me on all the way and it was a lovely way for us to spend some time together as well.”
AJ initially set himself a target of raising £110 for a charity close to his heart.
However, he has now accumulated close to five times that amount and the youngster has already set his sights on another challenge.
AJ said: “A small donation could make a big difference and thank you to everyone who has donated so far.
“I’m celebrating the end of my challenge by doing another bike ride to Leigh.”
To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/ajs-bike-riding-challenge.
We want to shine a light on those who have played a key role in helping you get through the pandemic.
To nominate your Community Hero, simply complete the form below.
Tell us about your coronavirus community champions
We want to hear about the dedicated individuals who have gone out of their way to help others, selflessly donating their time and energy to support friends and neighbours during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here