'Amazing' Ibrahim's fundraising heroics are recognised

Pictured (left to right) are: PC Neighbourhood Officer Amy Beckett, Ibrahim, Sophie and Supt Umer Khan

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has recognised a young duo for their fantastic fundraising efforts in the face of adversity.

Oldham's Ibrahim Yousaf and Gorton-based Sophie Anderson have raised thousands of pounds for local charities despite the tough situations they are experiencing.

Ibrahim, aged 12, has a severe medical condition and has raised over £2,000 for the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity and Maggie’s Charity.

Meanwhile, Sophie, 13, has raised over £8,000 for Ronald McDonald House at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital following the tragic death of her younger brother.

Ibrahim has received a Certificate of Merit from GMP, while Sophie was honoured with the ‘Young Champion’ award at the annual Pride of Gorton awards which were supported and hosted by GMP’s City of Manchester North District.

Ibrahim was diagnosed with severe asthma when he was just four and has been attending Royal Manchester’s Children’s Hospital for treatment since.

The condition means he can only walk short distances and he has to make regular visits to the hospital and take daily medication to keep the condition under control.

Sophie is a Year 8 pupil at Wright Robinson College in Gorton who has displayed an enormous amount of courage and resilience over the past year.

Her younger brother passed away in the weeks before she started secondary school, but despite the horrific circumstances she continued to attend school with a positive attitude and has excelled with the help of support staff.

At school she involves herself in a number of activities and clubs, she is a fantastic contributor to the Student Council and is also a talented actress who has recently had an audition for a part in Coronation Street.

Superintendent Umer Khan from the City of Manchester Division said: “Both of these young people are amazing individuals who have raised thousands of pounds for local charities.

“Ibrahim and Sophie are an inspiration because they are putting others first with their fundraising efforts even though they have been having a tough time themselves.”

The Pride of Gorton awards recognise individuals who have given up their time voluntarily to help others in their community.

Superintendent Khan added: “They are both very worthy winners of these awards and are a shining example of the great work that young people are doing in communities across Greater Manchester.”

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