Denmead boy set to help the NHS by running 10k around his garden on his 11th birthday

Murray Grinter will be turning 11 on Friday, May 1, and has decided to dedicate a few hours of his birthday to a charity 10k run for the NHS in a fundraising bid which has already seen him raise more than £400.

Currently confined to his home in Denmead during lockdown with his stepdad Daniel Curtis and mum Emma Curtis, who is shielding due to health issues, Murray has been getting very bored and wanted to use his time to make a difference.

When asked why he wants to raise money, Murray said: ‘Because I miss my dad and if I can help the NHS it will be over quicker.

‘I have watched the news and the NHS are helping everybody as well as my mum. I wanted to do something to help back.’

Emma and Daniel will be cheering Murray on during the challenge, live streaming his progress and helping make his birthday special.

Emma said: ‘Murray has seen the effect the coronavirus is having on people's lives and wanted to do something to help. He chose to raise money for the NHS to support the amazing work they are doing, during the coronavirus and across the board.

‘He has also seen the excellent work they do so close to home with myself due to undergo a bone marrow transplant. For him to want to help others during such a tough time himself we are all very proud of him.’

Murray is used to an active lifestyle, having taken on a few 5k Park Runs with his dad James Grinter, who he is apart from during this time.

James is no stranger to fundraising, as last year he ran from John O’Groats to Lands End last year for his friend who was paralysed and premature babies charity Ickle Pickles.

He said: ‘I’m super proud of him and excited for him to have this experience, to learn to give something back.’

To support Murray’s birthday efforts, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MurrayGrinter

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