AN inspiring young boy has raised more than £1,000 for the homeless after running the equivalent of more than a marathon in one month - because "everyone needs houses to stay warm".
Lucas Harvey, 6, of Colchester, is nearing the end of month-long challenge which has seen him pound the pavements for a mile everyday in March.
He came up with the idea to raise money for Shelter, a charity which campaigns for tenant rights in the UK.
The organisation also runs a free emergency helpline offering urgent advice to homeless people, those who have nowhere to stay, or people who are at risk of harm or abuse in their home.
Lindsey Harvey, Lucas' mum, said: "Me and his dad, Conor, are so proud of Lucas. He has always been quite an empathetic little boy and asks many questions when he sees a homeless person.
"The fact he wants to help at such a young age makes us even prouder."
So far, Lucas has completed 29 miles. His final mile will be completed on Sunday, bringing his total distance to 31miles - more than a 26.2 mile marathon.
Lucas said: "I want to run for the homeless because everyone needs houses to stay warm and not be ill.
"Maybe the money I raise can buy blankets and food to help them as well."
Lindsey, 31, added: "He even ran when he was off sick from school because in his words ‘homeless people have to live outside when they are ill mummy’."
His fastest mile was done in just over 12 minutes, while during some of his other runs he has captured Pokémon in Pokémon Go and took part in some parkour.
Lindsey added: "It was completely up to Lucas to do this. We’ve had to run alongside him every day - so trust me I wouldn’t have come up with the idea.
"He just wants to help and said that if people have money then share it with those that don’t. He does enjoy running so I think he thought it would be a fun thing to do."
To donate to Lucas' cause go to justgiving.com/page/lucasrunsmiles.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here