The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A Spalding schoolboy has completed an impressive 25km walk and raised more than £600 for a charity close to his heart.
On Easter Saturday, nine-year-old Finlay Carratt took part in the 25km (15.5 miles) walk to raise money for the Anthony Nolan Trust, a blood cancer and disorder charity.
When Finlay was three- years-old, his father, Michael, was diagnosed with leukaemia.
Finlay’s family have raised money for blood cancer charity Bloodwise for years and he got the idea for Monday’s walk when he read about a baby that needed a stem cell transplant. He also wanted to raise awareness that the disease can affect all ages.
Finlay’s proud mum, Stacey, who walked with him, said: “From three-years-old, Finlay’s been around stem cell research. When he read the article over my shoulder he asked if we could do the Easter Walk.”
Organised by Actionchallenge, the 25km walk took place in Windsor, taking in the Thames Path and Great Park.
Stacey said that half-way though the walk, they were really starting to feel the 27-degree heat.
Finlay’s older sister, Emily Ransome (20), and a friend offered finish the walk for him but Finlay pushed on.
“He is very determined. Finlay said ‘I’m not a loser, I’m going to do it,” said his mum.
Finlay’s determination has earned his efforts thousands of likes from online walking groups and sponsorship pledges from strangers impressed with his spirit.
“It was such an amazing day,” Stacey said.
Finlay’s father, Michael, is now in remission.
Stacey, who is a member of the Anthony Nolan Trust Friends and Family, said so far they have raised enough to help 15 new potential donors.
To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/finlay-carratt
