Preston six-year-old aims to climb Helvellyn for Children In Need

A six-year-old from Preston is taking on a challenge this month to raise money for Children In Need.

Maddie Ockden plans to climb to the top of Helvellyn, one of the highest mountains in England on 9 November.

Her mum, Laura, says Maddie is ‘determined’ to make a difference for children and families in need.

So far, Maddie has smashed her original £250 target and raised £832 already. In just one day she reached £250 and then decided to double it to £500, smashing that too.

Maddie said: “Thank you for raising so much money and supporting us.

“I’m so excited for this hike and to raise so much already!”

Maddie has also been fundraising at school as part of her efforts.

She will cover around 10 kilometres and reach 950 metres above sea level at the highest point.

Laura said: “Originally, her goal was to raise at least £250 to support the estimated 30 per cent of UK children living in poverty – a target she’s far exceeded, with her fundraising now surpassing £700.

“As part of her big dream, she also hopes to climb all 214 Wainwrights, and her upcoming Helvellyn hike is a major step towards achieving that goal.”