Fernwood youngster raises £1,000 for Save The Children's Ukraine Appeal

A seven-year-old girl has raised more than £1,000 for those affected by the Ukraine invasion.

Edith Hodson, of Fernwood, cycled 13 miles on Saturday ­— the distance of a half-marathon ­— to raise money for Save The Children’s Ukraine appeal.

Mum Louise Hodson said: “She has wanted to fundraise but didn’t know what to do. We gave her some ideas and she chose to bike half a marathon.

“With the situation in Ukraine getting worse, she decided she wanted to help the children there.

“It’s really lovely that she’s decided to do this off her own back, and we are really proud of her.”

Edith surpassed her initial target of £100, raising over £600 ahead of the bike ride ­— which rose to £1,267 when she completed the challenge.

She was recognised by JustGiving as one of the top 10% of fundraisers for the month and a Fundraising Legend, as she raised 1,266% of her goal.

The route saw her cycle through Fernwood, Balderton, Newark, Cotham and Hawton, before crossing the finish line at Sconce and Devon park, where family members had gathered to meet her.

Edith completed the mammoth bike ride in two hours and ten minutes.

Louise added: “She’s very pleased with herself.”

She had previously completed two training rides in preparation for her fundraiser, cycling 11km and 14km routes.