Easter Ross lad (9) steps up to help other kids with 30-day walking challenge for Cash for Kids Mission Christmas push
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A KIND-HEARTED Ross-shire lad determined to help less fortunate kids in the run-up to Christmas has been hailed an inspirational hero at the end of a year that "changed everything".
When nine-year-old Riley Leat heard about the Mission Christmas push to give gifts to children who would otherwise go without on Christmas Day, he immediately stepped up to the challenge – quite literally.
The determined Invergordon lad decided to walk 5km a day – 30 days on the trot – in the hope of securing £150 in sponsorship for the Cash for Kids charity.
But as news of the South Lodge Primary pupil's plucky effort started to spread, that was swiftly smashed and is already over the £1200 mark ahead of his planned grand finale walk next Saturday up to the Fyrish monument, a local landmark.
"I do hope that his actions inspire many more children to spend a thought for others less fortunate than them" – David Hayes Macleod, South Lodge head teacher
Mum Kara, who works for the NHS, said her son had flagged his plans at dinner one evening after hearing the appeal on the radio. She said: "He said 'Mum, I would really like to take part'. He wanted to raise £150. Me and his dad spoke about it and decided we would make up the total if he didn't make it."
She said: "We are an outdoors family anyway although that's more of a summer thing! He's sticking to it every day. If I get called in to work, another member of the family steps up."
Along with dad William and little brother Rory (1), they have explored several new walks and worked in trips to and from South Lodge Primary on school days.
His proud mum added: "Although we know times are extremely hard, even if people could donate 50p or share his page with friends and family this would mean the world to him. I am so proud of him."
South Lodge head teacher David Hayes-Macleod said: "When I heard of this amazing idea I was extremely proud of Riley. For him to think about other children less fortunate than himself says an awful lot about this extremely sensible and kind-hearted young man. It makes me very proud that Riley is a pupil of South Lodge Primary School and I do hope that his actions inspire many more children to spend a thought for others less fortunate than them. Well done Riley!"
Cromarty Firth ward councillor Maxine Smith said: "Riley has shown great initiative doing this challenge at a time when others need someone to show leadership and go beyond what is expected. We are all very proud of his efforts and achievements, he is a beacon to his fellow students.”
His effort – a cumulative 150km – have touched many in the local community and sparked some generous donations, amongst them from workers at the Global Energy Group.
Sasha Ellis wrote: "You are doing amazing! Everyone is so proud of you! Such a kind-hearted young man. Keep up the good work."
Shonaid Henderson hailed him "an inspiration", adding: "Hope other boys follow in your footsteps,"
Another wrote: "Good luck Riley. Always thinking of others. Such a kind thing to do."
His fundraising page can be found by searching 'Riley Leat Cash for Kids".
