A schoolboy from Cockermouth has raised hundreds of pounds for Hospice at Home West Cumbria by running a half marathon in his garden.

Alex Harper, nine, wanted to do a challenge after being inspired to do so by watching a fundraising programme on TV.

He said: “I watched the Big Night In, and wanted to do something to help. I thought a half marathon is quite a long way, so it might impress people enough to sponsor me. Hospice at Home West Cumbria is a really good cause, because they look after people in our local community”.

Alex talked to friends and family in preparation for his challenge and said: “The news of their support coming in during the day for hospice at home gave me the energy to keep going”.

The challenge was completed in four sections during that one day, and included more than 300 laps of the garden. His twin brother Robin and parents Katie Harper and Lucy Neadley were on hand as his support team by making sure he took regular rests, drinks and snacks.

Katie said: “Being active is really important to us as a family, as is being part of our community. This challenge really took Alex out of his comfort zone, and gave him the chance to achieve something he hasn’t done before. It was great to hear the support of friends and neighbours over the hedge and on video calls too.”.

So far, Alex has raised more than £400 for Hospice at Home West Cumbria.