A THOUGHTFUL 10-year-old racked up the miles to raise hundreds of pounds to treat residents at an assisted living scheme.

Freya Murphy from Kirkby Stephen raised £400 by walking over 70 miles during lockdown alongside her labrador Harper in aid of Mill Gardens Assisted Living Scheme.

“I decided I wanted to do something for the local people who have been affected by this annoying coronavirus, and thought it would be lovely if I raised enough money to give the residents a treat at Mill Gardens Assisted Living Scheme,” said Freya.

“Like a lot of older people they have not been able to see their families and friends and have lived in fear of catching this awful disease. I remember how happy they were to get the lovely pictures we drew for them last year, so thought I’d give them something else that they could enjoy.”

Freya initially decided to walk 31 miles, however as the month progressed, she doubled this and walked over 70 miles in 31 days alongside Harper. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Eden Housing Association residents have only just been able to enjoy their treat of Christmas Dinner at the Black Bull at Nateby.

Freya’s mum, Sarah, said: “I am extremely proud of Freya, she decided what she wanted to do and made it happen.

“Since doing this challenge, she has taken part in an eight-mile charity cross bay Morecambe walk raising money for Eden Valley Hospice and is planning on what she can next.

“I think it’s so important as parents and teachers to encourage the young people of today how to make a difference in helping those who are less fortunate than themselves in whatever way they can.”

Mill Gardens’ Support and Activity Coordinator Debra Wilkinson said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Freya (and Harper) for their generous donation to our tenants. It is lovely and very refreshing to see the younger generation take time out of their day to raise money for such a lovely cause.

“Our tenants here at Mill Gardens really had a great time getting together and enjoyed their Christmas.

“I hope that Freya’s efforts will go on to inspire other young people to think about the more vulnerable people in our communities.

“Well done Freya and thanks again, keep up the good work.”