A ‘MIRACLE’ boy had to be slowed down when he took on a walking challenge that would have been like a marathon to most people.

Wilf Stirzaker was “on a mission” as he tackled a six-mile trek over the Quantock Hills in aid of Children in Need at the weekend.

The ten-year-old had to be slowed down but still managed to complete the route between Lydeard Hill and Staple Plain ahead of schedule.

Wilf, of Bishops Lydeard, defied medical odds when he survived after being born ten weeks early with cerebral palsy.

He also proved doctors wrong when they said he would never sit or walk unaided.

But Wilf is so grateful for the help he has received over his short life that he has decided to “give something back” to help others.

His mother, Katy Stirzaker, said: “He did really well on Saturday (November 18).

“About 50 people came along and walked all or some of the way with us.

“Wilf was on a mission. He stormed off really quickly and we had to slow him down because we’d arranged to meet people at different places at certain times.

“We still finished earlier than we thought we were going to.”

Wilf has so far raised £2,700 in sponsorship for Children in Need from the walk, which was joined by family and friends, included his school teacher, classmates and volunteer rangers, while his grandparents went along to provide refreshments.

“He was quite tired afterwards and spent an hour soaking in the bath, while Sunday was a duvet day” said Mrs Stirzaker.

“He’s still pretty excited. On Monday we went up to Bristol and he was on the BBC Points West sofa with Pudsey Bear and presenters Alex Lovell and David Garmston.”

And Helen Skelton, from BBC Countryfile, which promoted a Children in Need ramble, and Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meadon, have tweeted their admiration for Wilf’s incredible achievement.

Before his walk, Wilf, who was back at his desk at Bishops Lydeard Primary School this week, said his condition makes it difficult for him to walk and run.

He added: “A couple of miles to you is like a marathon to me.

“So many people have helped me throughout my life and I would like to give something back.”