A PEEBLES pupil is lacing up for a charity challenge in aid of a cause close to home.

Priorsford Primary six pupil Lennox Lovell is preparing to embark on a 5k run to collect donations for the Peeblesshire Youth Trust.

The 10-year-old's idea to take part in the charity event came from a homework task to raise money for a good cause from school.

Lennox's family moved to Peebles from Edinburgh in June 2015, after they were offered a veterans house in the area to provide security for Lennox's Dad, James, who was medically discharged from the army after 12 years of service.

James was discharged after being diagnosed with a rare bone tumour in his brain, which required him to travel to the U.S. for treatment.

Tyne Lovell, Lennox's mum told the Peeblesshire News: “We absolutely love Peebles, and Priorsford primary has been wonderful for Lennox's confidence. 

“After the last few years of uncertainty that our family has endured, he's really shown resilience, and we couldn't be prouder of him for taking on this task.” 

Lennox, who lives at home with his Mum, Dad and two younger brothers, told us that his mum's volunteering at the Peeblesshire Youth Trust encouraged him to raise money for the local cause.

He told us: “I understand how difficult home and school can be and not everyone has the same support that I did. So I chose the Peeblesshire Youth Trust because everyone deserves the same support.” 

The fundraiser is the Gung-Ho event at the Meadows in Edinburgh, which will take place on Saturday, May 13. 

The event involves running 5k with added inflatable obstacles. In order for to make his way across the finishing line, Lennox will have to climb, crawl and get himself up, under, and over all of the obstacles.

Shona Haslam, Programme Co-ordinator for the Youth Trust said: “We are so grateful to Lennox and his family for doing this. I know that Lennox will overcome some significant hurdles in order to take part in this event and it is a real testament to his determination that he wants to help other kids in our community. 

“The Peeblesshire Youth Trust relies on the support of our community to exist, and it is so lovely when kids fundraise to help other kids. I really hope that the community in Peebles will get behind Lennox and support him in his efforts.”

To donate, visit: www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/tynelovell1#.WLGmhgLHpa0.facebook