11-year-old, Harry, cycles over 170 miles to raise money for Solent NHS Trust charity, Beacon
An 11-year-old boy, whose mum works on the front line in the NHS, has cycled over 170 miles to raise money for Solent NHS Trust’s charity, Beacon, after being inspired by Captain Tom Moore.
Harry White, who is in year 6 at Compton All Saints Church of England Primary School in Winchester, set himself the challenge to cycle at least five miles a day, every day throughout May. Through sponsorship he has raised over £1,200.
Coined ‘Harry’s Big Bike Ride’, the youngster came up with the idea after seeing Captain Tom walk 100 laps before his 100th birthday to fundraise for the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking on his inspiring challenge, Harry said: “I wanted to raise money like Captain Tom so I could help the people that are working with my mummy during coronavirus and make them feel good.”
Solent’s charity, Beacon, is proud to support patients, services users, carers and the families of all who come into contact with, as well as people employed by, Solent NHS Trust.
Karen White, Harry’s mother, is the Team Manager for Solent NHS Trust’s Central Community Independence Service in Southampton. The service is made up of a team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers and support staff, who help people that have been discharged from hospital and those that are struggling in the community, regain independence – this includes people who have and are recovering from COVID-19.
Speaking on her son’s incredible efforts, Karen said: “I am so proud of Harry. His level of commitment has been amazing, he’s been excited to go out on his bike every day. The people I work with are so grateful to him, they are such a dedicated and hard-working team, and this has given them a fantastic boost.”
David Noyes, Chief Operating Officer for Southampton and County Wide Services at Solent NHS Trust, said: “We are really grateful to Harry, who has taken on this challenge to help support the wellbeing of the people who work in Solent NHS Trust during these difficult and unprecedented times. There are so many parents and carers in our Trust, and the unwavering compassion and support they receive from their children and families makes a huge difference to team spirit and morale.”