A BORDERS schoolboy has run 50 miles in 50 days to support homeless people.

Robert Horton, nine, launched a fundraising challenge to help the Salvation Army after seeing a distressing news report.

The St Ronan's Primary School pupil has now completed his task – much to his father's delight.

Stephen Horton, of Innerleithen, said: "He hasn’t grumbled about it once – he’s even been out in the wind and rain."

Robert, a member of the Leithenburn Runners, came up with his project after learning about the struggle faced by homeless people.

He said: "I felt sad that they had no food and had nowhere to stay and thought someone should help."

Originally, Robert had planned to run every day for a month, but he decided to add an extra 20 days.

During the challenge, he told this newspaper he was "tired", but added: "I will finish."

Robert has raised more than £400 so far, smashing his original target of £200.

Mr Horton said he was "very proud" of his son's athletic achievement.

The advanced nurse practitioner said: "I was sure that, physically, he was able.

"He's in Leithenburn Runners and is doing pretty well.

"He runs everywhere, even bits of Lee Pen.

"But to stick at it for 50 days is excellent."

Mr Horton and his wife Lynsey were both able to join Robert on some of his runs.

Robert has not been to school since March 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak.

He said: "I miss all my friends from school and some of the clubs."

Mr Horton added: "As a family it's been challenging.

"As I'm still at work, Lynsey has had to do the home-schooling.

"I think now we are starting to get used to the routine a bit better.

"But it's fair to say the children miss seeing their friends – but WhatsApp and FaceTime have helped that in some way.

"It's hard for everyone not seeing their family."

To donate to Robert's fundraiser, you can visit this website.