A toddler from High Wycombe with a life-limiting condition has inspired her friend to run a mile-a-week marathon to raise £1,500 for a children’s hospice.

Jessica Newell, two, suffers from Leigh disease, a severe neurological disorder that results in progressive loss of mental and movement abilities and usually arises in the first year of life.

She attends Marlow Opportunity Playgroup on Watery Lane, Wooburn Green and regularly visits Helen & Douglas House in Oxford for respite care with her parents, for which friend Ciaran Thompson, eight, is hoping to raise the funds.

He has completed ten miles so far and will run the final leg of the 26.2 mile marathon on September 17.

He said: “Baby Jessica is my friend. I am doing this challenge to raise money for the places that help her.

“I want to raise money so people can stay in the world longer.”

Ciaran’s mum, Liz Thompson said Ciaran recognised that Jessica was different to his younger brother of the same age but did not realise her condition was life-limiting until he heard a radio interview at Helen & Douglas House.

She said: “I told him that Jessica's development has exceeded everyone's expectations and that's down to her parents, plus amazing professionals who care for her.

“We're really very proud of Ciaran. He's a kind and caring boy.”

Bobby Higson, community and events fundraiser at Helen & Douglas House said: "It’s great Ciaran is doing all this running in aid of Helen & Douglas House.

"It is fantastic to see someone so young committed to helping our cause."

Ciaran has raised almost £1,300 so far. To donate, go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SomeoneSpecial/CiaranThompson