A TEN-year-old boy who wanted to run his own version of a marathon has smashed his £300 target.

Jakey Hall, from Taunton, decided to run a mile every day for 26 days, instead of running a marathon, in order to raise money for disabled children in Africa.

He set a target of £300 but so far he has raised £1,011.

Jakey's mum, Joanna Hall, works for the charity Motivation, that works to provide wheelchairs for disabled children in Africa, Jakey wanted to help the charity's 'When I Grow Up' appeal which will aid children in Uganda.

Mrs Hall said: "His family are incredibly proud of him, and I think he sets a really positive example for other young people.

"He's not complained once about getting out there to complete a run every day and has shown real commitment right to the end.

"Thanks to the generosity of friends, family and the local community his efforts have been rewarded and disabled children in Uganda will benefit.

"We are grateful to Somerset Gazette readers who have donated, as well as members of Running Forever Running Club who gave their support as well as friends and family connected to North Town Primary school."

Jakey said to his supporters: "You are all awesome."

Somerset County Gazette:

The young runner wanted to use his love of sport to help others, as well as getting himself away from the TV and going outside instead.

Jakey started his 26 days of running on June 23.

As Motivation is part of the UK Aid Match scheme ran by the Department for International Development his fundraising will be match-funded, which means more than £2,000 will be going to help the disabled children in Uganda.

President of Motivation David Constantine MBE said: "Jakey's donation is an excellent achievement and is worth over £2,000 towards our ‘When I Grow Up’ appeal, which aims to help young disabled people aspire to achieve great things in their lives.

"Well done and thank you!"

Donations can still be made up until August 3 by visiting: https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/jakeymotivatingmarathon