Listen Live

Covid boy completes charity run

Jack runs as part of his recovery (photos courtesy: Emma Balchin)

Willand teen covers 63 miles

A Willand boy who contracted covid in the early days of the pandemic and who's considered, even by his own mother as "not a natural sportsman" has run 63 miles (not all in one go, thankfully) to raise money for Children't Hospice South West.

Jack Balchin, 13, tested positive in April last year, and set out to raise funds by  and running throughout December and January to aid his recovery.

Jack set himself the target of covering the distance from Exeter to the charity’s Little Bridge House hospice near Barnstaple. He's run through all weathers before completing his challenge on Saturday 9 January.

“Jack started running one mile and has been gradually building up the distance,” said his mum Emma. “He’s not a natural sportsman and has still not fully recovered from covid but running has been helping with his breathing and stamina. It wasn’t easy for him, but he ran through wind, rain, hail and ice and was absolutely determined.

"His last run was eight miles, his longest run ever, so he’s really finished on a high and we were there to clap and cheer him over the finish line.”

Jack initially set out raise £100 but has so far raised more than £1,170. He is a member of the Mid Devon Police Cadets and said he wanted to help CHSW because the cadets had chosen to support the charity in 2020 but were unable to do as much as they wanted due to the coronavirus lockdowns.

“I’m very proud of him,” added Emma. “Jack has taken so much pleasure in every pound that has been donated.”

CHSW area fundraiser Laura Robertson said: “Jack is such a superstar for completing this challenge for CHSW, especially having been poorly last year. CHSW is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2021 and support like this from incredible members of the community like Jack will help the charity continue to support hundreds of local families for many more years to come.”

To make a donation to Jack’s fundraising, visit https://bit.ly/2Ll8GCR

To find out how you can support CHSW during the charity’s 30th year, visit www.chsw.org.uk/30
 

More from Local News

Listen Live
On Air Now Matt Rogers Playing Never Gonna Give You Up Rick Astley