A YOUNGSTER raised more than £250 for KEMP Hospice by cycling 25 miles through Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley dressed as Father Christmas.

Seven-year-old Jayden Cook, from Kidderminster, was the youngest rider in the region's first Santa Cycle Ride, which set off from Brinton Park on December 1.

Jayden, who is a student at Lickhill Primary School, completed the charity cycle ride in two hours and 24 minutes.

Mum Lisa said: "Jayden does a lot of cycling - he's a member of Wyre Forest Cycling Club - but this is the first time he's done something with such challenging hills and climbs.

"It was a challenge but his energy was amazing. I'm massively proud of him."

Jayden added: "The best bit was getting my max speed which was 25mph and I am so proud that I did it."

Shelley Stanley, events fundraiser for KEMP Hospice, said: “Jayden was an absolute superstar. He was the youngest rider in the regions first ever Santa Cycle Ride for charity and it was such a touching moment when he crossed the finish line.

"Everybody cheered him on, and rightly so. At KEMP we are so lucky to receive support from young people, as well as people of all ages and walks of life, but it means so much to us that children want to help people who are facing such difficult and emotional times.

"At KEMP we also support children who have faced tough times such as bereavement or a family member facing a life-limiting illness, and there there’s something special about a young person like Jayden, willing to give up their time and raise money for people who need the care and support we provide.

"It’s heart-warming and so humbling to see, particularly at this time of year. Jayden you are a real KEMP hero.”

Jayden is still collecting donations for KEMP Hospice at justgiving.com/fundraising/jayden-cook.