A DEDICATED youngster is encouraging his classmates to jump in the saddle for charity.
Eight-year-old Reuben Stanford was inspired to raise money for those suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy after his mum Kate worked for the charity SMA UK.
The condition is genetic, causing weak muscles and affecting movement.
The Stratford Primary pupil decided to complete the ‘Marathon in May’ challenge which encourages charity supporters to clock up 26 miles throughout the month for sponsorship.
To put his plan into action, Reuben wrote a letter to the head asking to lead a school assembly on the condition and asked the charity’s fund-raising manager Caroline Dolan to attend the assembly to help answer any questions.
So far the youngster has cycled around 20 miles with his little brother Enoch and hopes to complete his marathon this weekend.
Kate said: “We are very proud of him for getting his school mates involved in raising money for such a worthwhile cause and for undertaking his own fund-raising and completing the challenge for SMA UK.”
Visit smauk.org.uk/marathon to find out more.
