A KEEN cyclist, age seven, has raised almost £2,000 for the NHS by completing a 20-mile charity challenge.

Freya Booth, from Culcheth, used her love for cycling to help NHS Charities Together care for Covid-19 patients.

Mum Helen said: "She's always had a passion for cycling and has been clocking up her miles since being on lockdown.

"She wanted to take on a challenge for the NHS and came up with the idea to ride 20 miles.

"She wanted to do it within a few hours and her hope was to reach a target of £100."

Freya's chairty ride took place on Saturday, May 16, and was a huge success, surpassing her fundraising target and raising more than £1,800.

Warrington Guardian:

Helen continued: "Alongside her dad, Arron, wearing their NHS Charities Together t-shirts, she did a route starting at home in Culcheth, through Newton-le-Willows, Winwick and Croft, then cycled the same route again.

"Freya fuelled up on energy snacks along the way and completed the challenge within two hours and 30 minutes, doing a total of 21.2 miles.

Warrington Guardian:

"Freya was so emotional and overwhelmed by so many close friends, family and neighbours turning up, while social distancing, to support her crossing the finish line which was made by one of the neighbours.

"There was a balloon wall donated by Freya's teaching assistant at school, handmade posters, decorations and banners, clapping, hooters and pots and pans!

"It was an amazing experience for her, and us, and lots of memories have been made.

"It uplifted the whole neighbourhood's spirits.

"We, as a family, are very grateful for the support Freya has had so far and of course we are so very proud of her."

Freya's JustGiving page remains active until Sunday, May 24.

It can be viewed by visiting justgiving.com/fundraising/helen-booth17.