When three-year-old Jarod Bennett was able to cast off the stabilisers on his bike, he decided to celebrate the achievement by tackling a gruelling 100-mile challenge.
Jarod, from Workington, has raised more than £1,000 for the mental health charity Mind – or, as he understands it, he is biking a long, long way to help make people smile again.
Dad Shaun said Jarod was encouraged to take part in the May challenge to increase his confidence riding without stabilisers, but he has gone far beyond what his parents expected.
“We figured Mind was an appropriate charity as so many people will be suffering some type of mental health barriers, especially relating to the effects of Covid-19.
The youngster gave a big thumbs up to all who have donated so far
"So many will be dealing with overcoming Covid, losing a family member or friend, losing money, changes in working or living circumstances, or just the lockdowns having an effect on their usual freedom,” Shaun said.
Jarod’s feat of endurance has attracted the attention of several local businesses who have donated to his run.
He was also named as one of Morrisons supermarket’s 'Little Sunshines'.
With the help of First Image, Jarod has been sporting logos on a t-shirt for a sponsored ride.
Jarod Bennett - Morrison's little sunshine
He has given a shout-out to each business which has been uploaded onto his fundraising page.
Kieran Sweeney, of Raw Pet Food, was the first local business to support Jarod and has promised another donation upon completion.
He also wanted to accompany Jarod on his final miles.
Tuncay Denli, of MC Barbers, has donated personally to Jarod towards him getting a new bike and has arranged a collection tin for the public to raise funds for Mind.
“We set out to raise £150 but that was exceeded almost immediately," Shaun added.
Jarod Bennett
"Friends, family, neighbours and businesses have all got behind Jarod.
"It has been amazing.”
Pedalling 100 miles in a month could challenge even the fittest of people. But what this little boy has achieved after only just learning to ride a bike without stabilisers has galvanised those who know him to donate to his cause.
To help raise that total, go to https://www.facebook.com/donate/577748583195499
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here