Nine-year-old Harry Beetham of Cockermouth drew inspiration from Captain Sir Tom Moore to raise money for a hospital’s League of Friends.
During lockdown, Harry completed a half marathon in his back garden and sponsorship brought in over £1,700.
That money was presented to the League of Friends who do their bit for Maryport’s Victoria Cottage Hospital.
Now the fruits of Harry’s efforts are on show at the hospital as the friends’ group decided to use it to buy tables and benches for outside use.
Harry’s father John, who works as a physiotherapist at the hospital, explained how it all came about.
“During the lockdown Harry was obviously inspired by Captain Tom walking round his garden and raising money, so he wanted to do something as well.
“He is a keen sportsman – running for Keswick AC and playing football for Cockermouth Juniors – so decided on a half marathon.
“So he measured a lap of the garden and how many he would need to do to complete the half marathon of 13 miles.
“He started on a Saturday morning, going and doing a bit on the hour, every hour. But I think he got a bit bored and on the Sunday morning he just went out and kept going until he had finished.”
The League of Friends decided to let the staff suggest what the money should be used for.
As they needed tables and benches to allow patients and visitors to sit outside on good, fine days that is what they decided to do.
Maurice Tate, treasurer of the League of Friends, said: “Two sets of tables and connected benches in top quality timber were delivered flat packed so I roped in the local scouts.
“With guidance from their leader and myself we got them together and we have fitted brass plaques to each set to honour Harry.”
