Kind-hearted Worksop boy completes 24-mile walk in memory of friend's father who died of Covid

James Szeniawski-Hancock completed a 24 miles trek from Worksop to Retford and back again in an impressive 10-and-a-half-hours.

The nine-year-old wanted to do something after three of his friends at Palterton Primary, in Palterton, Derbyshire, lost their father to Covid-19.

James’ mum Kerry Szeniawski said: “James has known the family for six years and although the school is fundraising, he wanted to do something nice off his own back.He asked if he could do his own little walk and we agreed.”

In just a few days James has raised £500.

Kerry added: “The walk was so lovely. We set off from the Lockeeper in Worksop, had a little rest in Retford and then set back off again.

"James was fine apart from the last five miles, but he managed to complete it.

"I am extremely proud of what my little boy has done in helping his friends. He is always thinking of everyone else and has a heart of gold.”

Staff at Morrisons, in Kilton Road, were left in awe of James’s fundraising efforts and arranged for him to visit the store with his mum to be presented with a gift hamper.

The store’s community champion Victoria Brooks said: “ He received a huge round of applause from colleagues and customers.

"His eyes lit up when he received the gift. We would like to say a huge well done to this truly inspirational and determined young man.”

Anyone who wants to sponsor James can make donations via Palterton Primary.

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