A FIVE year old boy is raising money for the NHS to thank staff for caring for his great-grandad before he died of suspected coronavirus.

Ben Kovacs, who suffers with dyspraxia, asthma and has high functioning autism, is taking on the challenge to cycle 50 miles over 14 days in a bid to raise money for the NHS trust which runs Worcestershire’s community hospitals.

Ben’s condition means he has mobility issues, low core strength and a lack of balance, so walking, running and cycling can be challenging for him.

Ben, from Worcester, was inspired to show his thanks to NHS workers after staff cared for his great-grandad, Terry Coleman, before he died of suspected Covid-19. The 71-year-old was tested after experiencing symptoms, but the results were negative. He was going to be re-tested after doctors questioned the reading, but he died before they had a chance. Mr Coleman died on April 12 at Kidderminster Hospital.

Ben’s mum, Cathryne Kovacs said: “As a family we were devastated we couldn’t be there with him, but know the doctors and nurses did a fantastic job taking care of him and were there with him at the end of his life. We just want to show some support and gratitude to all those risking their lives caring not only for Covid-19 patients but also other patients who are unwell.”

Mrs Kovacs, 29, added: “Ben’s now decided he wants to show thanks to the NHS workers who are working incredibly hard and, in his words, ‘are really brave.’ Just two weeks ago Ben was brave enough to try and ride his bike without stabilisers for the first time and absolutely smashed it.”

Ben began his challenge on April 27 any cycled 3.6 miles during his daily outdoor exercise.

His dad, Jon Kovacs, 30, said: “He tried so hard and did us proud. He had to stop a few times for a drink and a few puffs on his inhaler. We are super proud that not only he learnt to ride his bike without stabilisers but also that he decided he wanted to do something to help.”

Ben set himself a goal to raise £100 for Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust but in just nine hours he had doubled his target and has so far raised £257. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/cathryne-kovacs

The page has shared the inspiring tale from Ben’s point of view: “

Recently my great-grandad passed away with suspected Covid-19 and I want to thank the doctors and nurses for all the hard work they did and still do. They work really hard and are really brave, so I want to use my new learnt skill to show thanks. Please help me by donating whatever you can..”