Ingol ‘community champion’ completed two miles-a-day for a month to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease

9-year-old Reece Hamilton-Heath has been voted Beat 103 radio’s ‘community champion’ for his fundraising efforts.

Reece walked two miles a day throughout March to raise money for George Melling, who has Motor Neurone Disease at just 36.

Reece, who attends Ingol CP School, raised over £900 in total for the cause.

His headteacher, Mrs Parkinson, has a close connection to George Melling, and it was her who started the ‘Move a Mile for George’ fundraiser.

After walking two miles per day throughout March, Reece was able to add his money to the overall fundraiser which has surpassed its target of £3,000.

Reece’s shirt, which he wore to raise awareness of MND

Reece said: “I wanted to challenge myself and my teacher, Mrs Goulding, as she said she was running at least one mile per day so I decided to go for two miles a day.

“I am super proud of myself for being strong and determined to keep going even though it was very tiring.

“I walked most days and cycled some days and did a total of 71 miles which is fantastic and all while raising money for the legendary George Melling.”

His parents are very proud of his achievement, and told Blog Preston they have told him to never give up easily.

They said: “He did find the challenge very hard and he was tired most days, but he never gave up which is fantastic.

“We try to tell him you can’t give up easily on things and we think that’s made a big impression on him.

“All the efforts from Ingol CP school have been inspiring throughout this campaign, whether it be the pupils or teachers.

“Half of the staff throughout March walked over 1500 miles! Everyone was very moved by Georges story and was very happy to help raise money.

“Ingol CP school have done an amazing job working together as a team for this amazing man. It really helped us to connect and join together for a good cause when physically we were apart.”

To donate to the fundraiser, click here.

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Proud Preston. This, and many stories like it, show how the people of Preston are making a difference. Our Proud Preston section showcases all the charitable, kind, uplifting and great things about our city and the people who live here. #ProudPreston is alive and well, and there’s much to celebrate and be proud of, despite the challenging times we all face.

Did you take part in this fundraiser? Let us know how it went in the comments below.