Boy, 7, takes on 145-mile challenge for hospice

Isaac Yates, 7, is halfway through his 145-mile challenge for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice

A seven-year-old boy has taken on a mythical-themed challenge to raise funds for a hospice.

Isaac Yates, from King's Cliffe in Northamptonshire, is scooting, walking and cycling 145 miles (233km) through a Lord of the Rings Virtual Conqueror Challenge for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough.

His mum, Zoë Hopkinson, works as a physiotherapist at the hospice, which inspired Isaac's mission as he wants to "help people who are suffering and dying".

Ms Hopkinson said she was "proud" of her son and has seen first-hand the difference donations like his make.

Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice offers end-of life care

The Lord of the Rings fan started his challenge on 1 May and hopes to cross the virtual finish line by the end of the school summer holidays.

Using a special app, the miles Isaac clocks up takes him on a virtual tour through Middle-earth - with the promise of a medal when he reaches the end.

He said: "I wanted to help people that are dying and suffering.

"My mummy is a physiotherapist at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice and helps people with things like getting out of bed.

"I love cycling so I have been enjoying that the most - once I went 12.5 miles per hour on my bike. I was cycling very fast."

Isaac has been scooting, walking and cycling to complete his 145-mile challenge and has so far raised £245

Ms Hopkinson said: "It all started when Isaac's stepbrother took on a charity cycle ride last year.

"I am really proud of Isaac. I see first-hand how the money people like Isaac raise supports people we care for, so I am delighted he has been able to help."

Melissa Gray, community fundraiser at the hospice, said: "We are so grateful to Isaac for taking on this incredible challenge – what a fantastic achievement.

"The funds will mean that we can continue to be there for people through the most difficult times of their lives."