A YOUNG charity fundraiser is walking tall today after his efforts collected £285 to help older people.

A YOUNG charity fundraiser is walking tall today after his efforts collected £285 to help older people.

Eight-year-old Scott Balaam completed a sponsored walk around Chantry Park for Age Concern Suffolk.

Scott, who lives in Needham Market, was so excited about his task that by the time he had finished the trek, jogging some of the way, he had covered nearly four miles, rather than the three he originally set out to reach.

He was inspired to take part by his grandma, June, a volunteer fundraiser with the charity.

The Bosmere Primary School pupil, who also enjoys football, biking and swimming, said: “I enjoyed the walk and am pleased I could help older people like my grandma. Thank you to everyone who sponsored me.”

Scott's grandma, 70-year-old June Balaam of Jermyns Close, Capel St Mary, said: “He went round the outside and someone walked with him to verify what he did.

“I couldn't walk the whole way as it was too far for me, but I kept him in sight all the time and did some of it with him.

“I think it was nearly four miles in the end but we couldn't be completely sure because the pedometer wasn't working!

“It took him about an hour - he was walking quite fast and running at times, but he still said he wanted the play football afterwards.

“He said he would love to do it again. I'm very proud of him, he did very well.

“At the end I gave him a big hug and treated him to a few sweets.”

Have you taken on a challenge for charity? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.