A PUPIL from Norton has raised over £1,000 for St Richard's Hospice after completing a sponsored walk in Malvern.

Selwyn Jones did the sponsored walk after his mother was diagnosed with cancer last year.

The six-year-olds mother, Jose Ferriman, has been attending St Richard's hospice in Worcester for care and support.

Selwyn who attends Harvington First School was given a big thank you from staff at St Richard's for raising the cash. The money raised by Selwyn will go towards a desperately needed new hospice.

Selwyn's classmates and teachers were inspired by the charity work carried out by the young pupil and they too raised £1,100 for the hospice.

The headteacher at Harvington First School, Marcia Palmer, said: "I'm extremely proud of all the children here, they've all done very well. There's a lot to learn here - if you set children any sort of challenge they always meet it. Young children here are very able as they have proved by raising this huge amount of money for St Richard's Hospice."

St Richard's Hospice community fund-raiser Alison Weston spoke at the school assembly last Friday and thanked Selwyn and everyone at the school for their fantastic efforts. Selwyn presented the school with a certificate of appreciation from the hospice.

"Selwyn is an inspiration to everyone, young and old alike. He knew he wanted to make a difference to the patients and he has done just that by raising money for the urgently-needed new hospice. He has encouraged others at school to help fund-raise and together they have raised a fantastic amount."

Building work has recently started on the new hospice near County Hall, Worcester and campaigners are working to raise the remaining £350,000 needed to complete the Building Beds Together campaign.