Young fundraiser will go distance

READY . . . Finlay Mellor gets in the mood for his Comic Relief charity run with his dad Barry

AN eight-year-old boy is taking extra steps for Comic Relief when he puts on his running shoes for a fundraising run today.

Finlay Mellor, of Shaw Hall Close, Greenfield, will be running from his home to Diggle to raise money for Comic Relief and has so far raised more than £380.

The youngster, who will be accompanied by his father Barry, will run about four miles to meet his cousin Ben Myer at his house.

Finlay is a pupil Freizland Primary School and has been recognised by the headmaster for his fundraising efforts.

His mum Rebecca said that he had always had a 'soft spot' for helping homeless people, who he often gives money to, and decided to help aid Comic Relief by doing something sporty.

Although Finlay hasn't done any training for the run, Rebecca believes his abundance of energy and regular activities with Uppermill Football Club, where he trains and plays once a week, will stand him in good stead to conquer the challenge.

Originally Finlay had set himself a target to raise £100, but canny use of social media combined with people's generosity has seen the amount nearly quadruple that goal.

Rebecca said: "He decided to do it himself. He's always had a bit of a thing for helping homeless people and he saw a Comic Relief advert and he wanted to something sporty for it.

"He loves football and he does do a bit of running. So far he has raised £383 and he had a target of £100. But he shared it on social media and loads of people have donated - he's done amazing. He's just going to go in at the deep end."

She added: "It was Finlay who came up with the idea of doing something, we just had to help with what to do. We're very proud of him."

Anyone wishing to donate should visiting my.rednoseday.com/sponsor/finlaymellor.

* Are you taking part in a Comic Relief fundraiser? Contact the Chronicle on news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk or call 0161 6222118 to let us know.