Schoolboy’s gaming marathon inspired by Captain Tom Moore

Sam Knight, 14, who attends Meoncross School in Fareham, is to take part in a 19-hour gaming marathon to raise money for the British Red Cross.

Sam said: ‘I saw what Captain Tom had done and started to think about doing my own challenge to raise money to help the cause. I had a look online and found a website about gaming challenges. I decided to do it for 19 hours as it links in with Covid-19.’

Captain Tom Moore, who turned 100 last month, was knighted for raising more than £32m for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden.

The selfless teenager decided to raise money for the Red Cross as he felt they ‘weren’t getting the recognition’ for the work they are doing in the pandemic fight.

‘The NHS are doing a fantastic job but so are the Red Cross who are providing support behind the scenes. I originally set a target of £100 and we have already got £80 before we have even started. It would be great to make £500,’ said Sam.

Sam is planning to start his mammoth gaming session at 6.30am on Saturday (May 23). Providing support with a plentiful supply of food and refreshment will be Sam's mother, Alex Del Medico.

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Alex said: ‘Sam was inspired by Captain Tom. He’s a really caring boy and it’s nice to hear about teenagers doing something selfless like this.’

Sam will be taking part in the gameathon with friend, Logan Scaddan, 13.

Sam commented: ‘You have to work together on the games. I normally play for two or three hours but never anything like 19. I think the hardest thing will be staying awake.’

You can donate money to support Sam’s cause by clicking here.

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