6-year-old Ellis takes on cycling challenge to raise more than £1k for baby charity Tommy's

A superstar little boy has raised £1,278 for the baby charity Tommy’s, by cycling 50 miles around Biggleswade with his dad.

Ellis Kodagoda, six, saddled up to show support for his parents who have experienced child bereavement and have turned to Tommy’s.

Ellis’ mum, Samantha, said: “Me and his dad are immensely proud.

"There were days when Ellis really didn’t fancy getting on his bike, but we just reminded him why he wanted to set himself this challenge - to help save babies and help their families.

"He was an absolute superstar throughout and we have all been overwhelmed by the amount he has raised thanks to the generous support of his family and friends.”

The family contacted Tommy’s who sent Ellis his own special T-shirt to wear during his challenge.

Jacqui Clinton, fundraising director for Tommy’s, said: “The pandemic has created higher demand for support from Tommy’s, with 90 per cent more queries to our midwife helpline than usual and millions of people accessing our support and information online.

"At the same time, event cancellations in lockdown wiped out a lot of the funds we expected to raise this year - so we have taken a real hit when our work matters more than ever.

"The dedication of fundraising superstars like Ellis means we are able to continue our vital work; we are incredibly grateful to him and the whole Kodagoda family for their generous support.”

Ellis says he is all up for doing another fundraiser in the future.