Nine-year-old raises nearly £6,000 with cycle ride challenge

A nine-year-old boy has completed a 26km cycle ride challenge to raise money for charity.

Oisín Knowles, from Llanbradach, set out to cycle 26km every day for 26 days during lockdown to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Through the challenge, Oisín has raised nearly £6,000 in memory of his cousin, Josh, who died in May 2019 aged just six.

He started the challenge on May 4 – the first anniversary of Josh’s passing, and completed it on Friday, May 29.

Josh spent a lot of time in hospital in Dublin, with the family supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities during the difficult time.

The charity aims to provide families with a place to stay while their children are in hospital.

The charity provided Josh’s family, who live in the Republic of Ireland, with accommodation during his time in hospital.

Oisín’s mother, Claire Kelly, said: “Oisín was very close with Josh. He adored him and it took a lot out of him when he died.

“He always said he wanted to do something to raise money, and with the lockdown he was able to do the challenge.”

During the last day of his challenge, Oisín was met at various points by teachers and staff at St Helen’s RC Primary School, who were on hand to offer him support and encouragement.

Ms Kelly added: “It’s a huge achievement. Oisín really enjoyed it. He’s quite sporty and he’s missing his football and rugby at the moment.

“We’ve been blown away by it all – the support has been fantastic.

“It goes without saying that we are hugely proud of what he is doing.

“Oisín is overwhelmed by the support, and has finally admitted he’s feeling tired after his challenge.”

To make a donation to Oisín’s fundraiser, visit obv.sr/oisin.