A 10-year-old boy from Amersham has been recognised for his fundraising efforts after he walked the equivalent of a marathon for charity.

Teddy Osborne decided to take on the challenge of completing a marathon (26.2 miles) in a month to fundraise for Combat Stress.

The cause delivers specialist treatment and support to former servicemen and women with military-related trauma.

Through his efforts, he raised a remarkable £1,373, which will help fund the life-changing services Combat Stress provides veterans across the UK. 

He was awarded the Young Fundraiser of the Year by veterans from the charity on February 22.

He received the prize from General Sir Peter Wall, former head of the British Army and now President of Combat Stress, at the charity’s annual awards ceremony in London.

On his award, Teddy said: “I’m really, happy to win this award.

“It was fun meeting other winners, and even better because I got to leave school early and miss my science lesson.

“My challenge was hard, and I did get tired, but I knew that if I kept going I could help veterans get better.

“I'm proud of myself.”

Demonstrating exceptional determination, Teddy began with a gruelling hike in terrible weather up Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales last November.

Untroubled, over the following weeks he clocked up mile after mile by running with his mother and walking with his supportive brother and sister.

He was so determined to complete the challenge that he accidentally went 1.8 miles over the target distance.

Robert Marsh, Director of Fundraising at Combat Stress, said: “Teddy is a testament to what young individuals can accomplish with passion and perseverance and he should be very proud of himself.

“We are so grateful to him for his efforts and all he has done for us and the veterans who seek our help.

“We are delighted to present him with our Young Fundraiser of the Year Award.

“This event recognises the incredible support and dedication of our community of fundraisers.

“It’s thanks to our supporters that we can meet the high demand for our services and be there for those veterans who need us.”