AN ILMINSTER boy has been inspired by a 100-year-old war veteran’s charity challenge and is taking on a fundraising effort of his own.

Wilf saw on TV the amazing dedication of Captain Tom Moore, who has now raised more than £32million by walking 100 laps of his garden.

It inspired the youngster to try and raise money for elderly and vulnerable residents, and anyone who is self isolating in Ilminster due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Chris White, Wilf’s dad, said: “Wilf saw Captain Tom on TV and thought it was amazing he was raising so much money, and wanted to do something similar.

“I said to him about running a marathon but in 10 days, so 2.6 miles each day, and he said it would be hard but wanted to give it a go if it could raise some money for local people that might need help, so that is how it started.”

Wilf completed his first run last Tuesday (April 28) and is aiming to complete the challenge on Thursday.

“He has been doing so well and seeing him improve each day, with a wobble on day five,” Chris added.

“We are so proud.”

Wilf originally set out to raise £100 for the local community, but has already raised more than £500.

Chris said: “He is hoping it will help local people and put a smile on some faces.”

So far Wilf has taken around half an hour to run each 2.8mile stretch, with his best time coming on Monay when he did it in 26 minutes and 59 seconds.

On day three he was even joined by his sister, Elsie.

More than 40 people have already donated to Wilf’s JustGiving page, but he is hoping to raise as much cash as he can.

To donate to this fundraising cause, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/natalie-tucker