Cycling schoolboy rides to raise money for Dogs Trust

Itchen Abbas resident Jake Kurton, who is nine years old, is an avid cyclist and decided to use his passion to ride 100 miles for Dogs Trust.

Jake had originally challenged himself to ride 100 kilometres during the month to raise £100. But, after managing to achieve the distance just halfway through March, he extended the challenge to 100 miles, all the while raising £415.

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Jake rode in all weathers and on many of the Itchen Valley's roads and trails, with his sister Emily joining him for several rides. He also spent an afternoon cycling more than 40 kilometres on the famous Goodwood motor racing circuit. 

Jake and the family dog, Ella (Image: Matt Kurton)

Jake completed the challenge with friends from Itchen Abbas Primary School, braving gale-force winds as they cycled the final miles.

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Jake said: "I chose to raise money for Dogs Trust because they are my favourite charity, and it is where my grandma and grandad's dog, Frank came from.

Jake, who can often be seen walking family's Labrador Ella around the Itchen Valley, added: "It was a tough but fun challenge, and I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who sponsored me.

Jakes dad, Matt Kurton said: "We're massively proud of Jake's achievement. He came up with the idea himself and it was great to see his determination to get out and ride, even when the weather was bad.

"Our family all rode with him at different points, which gave us the chance to chat and enjoy the countryside together. It's great to know all the money he raised will go to such a good cause."

There is still time to add to Jake's fundraising goal. Donations can be made at justgiving.com/page/sarah-kurton.